MANITOWOC – Kids can plant their own veggies indoors through the YMCA’s Energyze summer program.
The Manitowoc-Two Rivers YMCA partnered with Grow It Forward to help participants in sixth through eighth grade learn healthy food habits by growing leafy greens, herbs and vegetables. Grow It Forward leant a Fork Farms hydroponic unit to the program for the project.
The Fork Farms system, which uses hydroponic technology to grow plants efficiently and sustainably, will provide a hands-on opportunity for kids to learn how food grows — without soil or sun.
YMCA campers will take part in planting, harvesting and tasting the produce they grow, which can help them make connections between nutrition, sustainability and their everyday lives.
“Empowering young people with the skills and knowledge to grow their own food is a powerful tool for lifelong health and wellness,” said Julie Grossman, CEO of the Manitowoc-Two Rivers YMCA, in a news release. “We’re so grateful to Grow It Forward for bringing this opportunity to our campers.”
The initiative is part of Grow It Forward’s broader commitment to food education and community nutrition, the release said. The organization also is lending a Fork Farms unit to Jefferson Elementary School for use throughout the summer and school year.
“Fork Farms units allow us to bring farming indoors, making it accessible year-round,” said Grow It Forward CEO Amber Daugs in the release. “We’re excited to partner with organizations like the YMCA and local schools to nurture a new generation of food-literate youth.”
Contact reporter Patti Zarling at pzarling@gannett.com or call 920-606-2575. Follow her on X @PGPattiZarling, on Instagram @PGPatti and on Bluesky @PGPatti.
This article originally appeared on Manitowoc Herald Times Reporter: Manitowoc-Two Rivers YMCA uses new tech from Grow It Forward to help kids learn to eat healthier
Reporting by Patti Zarling, Manitowoc Herald Times Reporter / Manitowoc Herald Times Reporter
USA TODAY Network via Reuters Connect
