Nutrition Gardens

Since 2016, in a concerted effort to improve dismal nutrition statistics affecting our most vulnerable neighbors, House of Hope developed a robust nutrition and wellness education program that has created and managed multiple Nutrition Gardens across Martin County. The gardens provide an engaging, non-traditional “classroom” for local youth and adults to participate in hands-on, age-appropriate Nutrition Education opportunities.

The Root Problem
Martin County has high levels of childhood obesity — more than 30% — and in certain economically-challenged communities, that number is as high as 60%, according to data from the Florida Department of Health. Some parts of the community also have higher-than-normal rates for adult diabetes and a generally poor understanding of good nutrition, and residents lack healthy eating habits.

The Solutions
Servings thousands of individuals every year, the goals are simple but comprehensive:

  • To improve knowledge of nutrition concepts.
  • To improve attitudes towards healthy eating.
  • To provide local youth with educational opportunities focused on gardening, healthy eating habits, and basic cooking instruction geared toward preparing healthy meals.
  • To raise awareness of the link between nutrition and healthy eating to overall good health and development in children and adults.
  • To connect children and families to local opportunities for health and nutrition education.

Current Locations

  • The Banner Lake Club
  • Golden Gate Center for Enrichment
  • East Stuart Nutrition Garden in partnership with the City of Stuart
  • YMCA of the Treasure Coast 
  • Traveling Nutrition Education Garden
  • Edible landscape at House of Hope's main service center

How to Help

You can play a role in these transformational efforts through volunteering, offering in-kind materials and services, and providing monetary support.

For more information, please contact Lauren Mustelier, director of enrichment and engagement, at lauren@hohmartin.org or (772) 286-4673, ext. 1004.  To volunteer in our gardens, please fill out an application by clicking here.