As the initial Horticultural Therapist at Project Renewal’s Bedford Greenhouse, I had the unique opportunity to bring the 1,500 square foot, state of the art rooftop greenhouse to life in service of the buildings residents, the majority of whom had been impacted by housing insecurity, mental illness and substance use disorder. I managed the creation of the site’s life-enriching therapuetic greenhouse and rooftop garden and facilitated programming with residents, staff, and volunteers.
photo credit: ESKW Architects
Working with Oko Farms, we installed a multi-tank, indoor aquaponics system to provide year-round access to produce and herbs while supporting the therapuetic goals of the building’s residents.
A large number of ornamental plants were donated by an area landscaping firm, enabling us to stretch our programming budget, provide shade for the goldfish, and offer a diverse range of plant material to support therapeutic engagement.
Aquaponics-grown calendula flowers being processed by members of the Bedford Greenhouse “Young Gardeners Club”, a low-threshold, after-school initiative run in collaboration with the site’s resident Occupational Therapist.
A rooftop meadow provides residents access to the passive benefits of plants and nature and encourages wildlife by providing habitat and respite in the Bronx skies.