Locally grown fruits and vegetables are not only healthier, they are also much fresher than produce bought from a grocery store. The concept of “Farm to Table” comes from the idea of knowing exactly where the food you eat comes from. The Agriculture Extension Agent and SNAP-Ed Assistant of the Logan County Cooperative Extension Service brought the Farm to Table idea to the mentally handicapped adults of Lifeskills Industries.

By constructing a raised container garden out of agriculture stock tanks, the agents and clients were able to make planting and maintenance much easier for the individuals responsible for these tasks. It also gave 16 out of the 18 individuals an opportunity to learn how to plant a garden as well as instilling the confidence to try something new to all the individuals. The garden project was designed to supply the individuals with the produce they enjoyed and the produce needed for their nutrition education classes. Responsibility and commitment was also a goal of the garden project. 10 of the 18 that started the garden project, continue to maintain the garden and 11 are eating the vegetables from the garden at least 2 days a week. The garden also encouraged 14 of the 18 to each vegetables every day. By growing their own vegetables, the individuals of Lifeskills Industries were able to see the full circle idea from planting the vegetables to maintaining the garden to eating the produce that was produced. The garden provided more than fruits and vegetables, it provided the adults of Lifeskills Industries greater character skills and encouragement to grow as individuals.