Gather New Haven's Farm-based Wellness program is still accepting applicants!

[Brent Peterkin]

Gather New Haven's Farm-based Wellness program supports residents of low-income communities with metabolic syndrome and diagnoses of chronic diet-related diseases such as cardiovascular disease, hypertension, and type 2 diabetes. Participants are introduced to the program through their healthcare provider or referrals from family members or peers. The Farm-based Wellness program is held year-round in a group-based setting, with the core of its activities occurring over a 16-week period which parallels the growing season of our six urban farms. Program participants receive bags of fresh, organically grown produce from our farm properties every week during their enrollment. By providing weekly farm shares, we help address food insecurity and ensure that families have consistent access to fresh, locally grown healthy foods. Participants meet twice per week throughout the program and receive a goal-driven and outcomes-focused education in healthy cooking and eating, nutrition, responsible food shopping, and an understanding of how social, behavioral, biological, and clinical issues facilitate or reduce disparities and disease.