Urban farming has gained popularity over the years because it has many benefits, such as promoting healthy eating habits, raising environmental awareness and creating a sense of community.
Improve mental health: Gardening has been shown to have a positive impact on mental health, which can be especially important for youth who are experiencing difficulties. By engaging in urban agriculture, they can experience a sense of accomplishment, reduce stress and feel more connected to their community and the environment.
Encourage healthy habits: Youth in the DPJ may also lack access to healthy foods. By growing their own veggies and herbs, they can learn the importance of a balanced diet and make healthier food choices.
Provide job training opportunities: An urban agriculture program can also provide job training opportunities in areas such as agriculture, horticulture or landscaping. This can help youth gain skills and knowledge that can lead to future employment opportunities.
Implementing an urban farming program for the Child and youth protection centre (DPJ) can have many beneficial effects on their physical, mental and social well-being.
The practice of agriculture can also have a positive impact on the lives of troubled youth. MicroHabitat was fortunate to partner with The Youth Foundation of the DPJ to offer a reintegration program that explores the benefits of implementing an urban agriculture program for these youth.
The DPJ is a government agency responsible for protecting children and youth who are experiencing difficulties or are at risk of harm. It works closely with families, schools and other organizations to ensure the well-being and safety of these youngsters.
How can an urban farming program benefit youth part of the DPJ?
Developing life skills: Youth in the DPJ often face challenges and may not have the opportunity to learn important life skills. An urban agriculture program can give them the opportunity to learn responsibility, patience, problem solving, and teamwork, which can be valuable transferable skills in other areas of their lives.
Promote environmental awareness: An urban agriculture program can also help young people develop a greater appreciation for the environment and the importance of sustainability. They can discover the impact of their actions on the environment and learn to make more environmentally friendly choices.
Creating a sense of community: Youth in the DPJ may feel isolated or disconnected from their community. An urban agriculture program can bring them together and create a sense of community. By working together on a common project, they can build relationships, develop social skills and feel a sense of belonging.
By developing life skills, improving mental health, encouraging healthy habits, promoting environmental awareness, creating a sense of pride, belonging to the community, and providing job training opportunities, the implementation of this urban agriculture program helps these youngsters build a brighter future.
Want to be part of the solution and fight food insecurity among challenged youth?