After School Food Wellness Program for Students in Southbridge

Catholic Charities Worcester County will work collaboratively with 2Gether We Eat, an organization with a mission to end food insecurity, by educating and empowering the youth. The program will allow students to learn about hydroponic farming and how it can aid their families and communities to grow large amounts of healthy, affordable, and locally sourced food in urban environments, where such food is otherwise difficult to obtain. Growing, Reaching, And Developing (GRAD) program is designed for the enrichment, empowerment, and development of High School students.

This program, sponsored by the United Way of South Central MA, fosters learning and awareness in the issues of food insecurities. High School students will learn the power of growing and harvesting, the benefits of healthy eating, and the importance of eliminating hunger. Participating students would be able to transform their newfound STEM knowledge into action by learning at the Southbridge Area office, on how to grow a variety of green, leafy vegetables, learn about hydroponics, the germinating process, and harvesting. Wellness and healthy eating will be a part of the curriculum, as well as awareness and advocacy geared towards eliminating food deserts in our community.

Students will meet once a week; we are accepting applications for registration. Space is limited. For more information, contact Miurka Torres, Program Director at 508-860-2244 or by email [email protected].