Chester County Master Gardeners helped install raised garden beds at the Valley Youth House for young men in West Chester and continue to support and teach the residents about growing food.
Raised Bed Construction
The young men are in the foster care or juvenile justice system and responsible for all aspects of their life with support from staff members. During our first meeting, one young man said he was excited to grow healthy food because grocery shopping made him sad that he was not be able to afford produce. Another said he wanted to learn how to grow pretty flowers, so his future home could have a nice yard.
Four Master Gardeners helped the young men and staff build a shade garden and raised beds and install the selected plants. Over our time together, the young men taught us about their friendly neighborhood woodchuck as they shared their dreams and challenges. In turn, the Master Gardeners taught the young men how to grow and harvest food through informal sessions.
The gardens provided the young men with several meals, horticultural knowledge to grow food and save money, and the value of commitment. In subsequent years, the team continues to support the gardens and work with the young men to teach them about gardening. Most importantly, the project taught the students about kindness. (Photo taken by Sophia Hanson)
