January 1, 2021
The Sustainable Living Project is an urban farm and education center where people can be immersed in the world of sustainability. It consists of a 1 acre plot and houses 34 grow beds (10 of which are dedicated to a Veteran volunteers), 3 sheds, a water catchment patio with solar panels, a greenhouse with aquaponics, a chicken coop, bee hives and a 10 stall compost station. There are also monthly on-site education classes on sustainability and healthy living, partnerships with local elementary schools to foster a healthful, eco-friendly lifestyle in the next generation and disbursement of fresh, organic food to people in need. The Jersey College, Tampa Alpha Delta Nu Chapter inductees, Brandon Joseph and Hanna Butsko, recognize the direct correlation between a balanced, nutritious diet and the prevention/intervention of disease. They also understand that nurses play an integral role in health promotion and thus, support efforts to bring healthy information and produce to our local community. They decided to partner with The Sustainable Living Project primarily because of the disbursement of organic food to the community and its outreach to children. Teaching the youth about the importance of urban agriculture and organic eating is a vital part of preventing future diseases exacerbated by poor lifestyle habits. They look forward to continuing our partnership and bringing healthy food and information to our local community.