Writing a garden journal
RCHI staff and residents have created an inspiring and practical Eco-Learning Farm. Among the lush vegetable plots are ornamental plants, herbs, famous garden quotes, recycled product plant hangers, a fish pond, water catchment systems, plus creatively handmade stone pathways, bamboo fencing and shade huts. The innovative project has attracted many visitors including the U.S. Ambassador to the Philippines, Provincial Governor, Municipal Mayor, Tarlac College of Agriculture professors and curious neighborhood friends. Proud staff and residents toured the visitors and shared their accomplishments. The vision of the Eco-Learning Farm is to grow an eco-friendly, productive, and sustainable learning farm that offers a safe and unique environment for youth development programs plus a supply of fresh, organic produce for use in meals at the center.
Since the 2500 square meter area was prepared for cultivation in 2009, the farm grew along with the learning opportunities. These included a deep-water well project, construction of shade huts and a support nursery, establishing a fish pond, a Farm to Fork cooking demonstration using fresh vegetables from the Eco-Learning Farm, picnics, environmental education and nutrition seminars, and consistent teamwork necessary for maintaining the group growing areas. The staff mobilized the youth to participate in projects which promoted the development of various skills.
Fresh, organic vegetables from the farm have been common ingredients in meals at the Home, too. RCHI social worker, Ella Agustin, writes, “I enjoy working with my group in beautifying and maintaining the farm. I am happy to see our plants grow and bear fruit for the home consumption. The activities and bounties help in keeping the residents healthy and strong.”
In 2010, RCHI was able to harvest organic vegetables for use in meals at the Home three times a week during the August, Sept and October growing season. This saved RCHI money and empowered the youth who helped grow the vegetables. Shortly after the June 2011 growing season began, over 25 fruit and vegetables could be found growing on the farm.
RCHI has many plans for the future. Ella Agustin looks forward to, “developing the social aspects of our residents” through farm-based projects that foster literacy, public speaking, decision making, teamwork and leadership. Plans include the building of a large rain water catchment cistern, designing and installation of youth-friendly educational signs throughout the farm, a community outreach plant nursery and income generating projects using farm produce. Leah Ferrebee, US Peace Corps Volunteer
All the Rehoboth Children made presentations
On 24th July 2010 the Rehoboth staff and children celebrated Nutrition Month with a special programme of events. Each of the garden groups had to prepare a presentation about three of the vegetables that grow in their garden. The elementary children made a poster about their vegetables during the morning and then presented it to everybody in the afternoon. The high school residents had to present the nutritional value of their vegetables and sicknesses that can result from lack of them, in a creative and interesting way which included songs, role play and diagrams. Finally the college students had to present an original recipe using their vegetables to everyone during the afternoon programme. As well as the group presentations there were also nutrition games and quizzes with prizes. It was a fun afternoon which culminated in our monthly birthday celebration.