Agriculture Program
THE TERI AGRICULTURE PROGRAM
Grow, Learn, Eat, Be Well!
The TERI Agriculture Program operates 3 large-scale certified organic urban farms (certified by NFC) and 9 home gardens, providing specialized vocational training for our students and seasonal produce. The farms and gardens are designed to conserve natural and man-made resources, encourage a diverse wildlife ecology, and provide a safe, engaging, and motivating space for our students, staff, and the local community.
Our Agriculture Program yields 1,000 – 1,500 pounds of certified organic crops per month providing 80% of the fresh produce consumed by TERI’s group home residents with the rest used in our culinary programs. Currently, 80 – 100 students participate in the program with a growing number of individuals interested in farming and agriculture coming on-board.
What do our students learn?
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How to grow food and the importance of environmental stewardship.
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The environmental implications of where food is sourced, and how local and global food systems operate.
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How food choices can benefit health and the environment.
The program is designed to achieve 3 main goals:
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Provide vocational, enrichment, and learning opportunities through working in our organic farms year-round.
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Create a vigorous brain/body/nature connection promoting skill reinforcement, increased engagement, and lower instances of unproductive behaviors.
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Provide organic food to the TERI residential homes program through our weekly deliveries of fresh fruits and vegetables.
