Healthy Futures in Bloom: Goshen Health Expands Garden Program to Reach Thousands More Students

Goshen Health’s Tower Garden Program has expanded to reach more students across the region. Originally launched in Goshen Community Schools in 2023, the initiative has grown to include five local school districts including Concord, Elkhart, Fairfield, Goshen and Middlebury. A total of 29 gardens are currently supported by Goshen Health through the program.

The program equips classrooms with vertical gardens that enable students to grow fresh, nutrient-rich produce year-round. Teachers are supported with information, supplies and resources. The program fosters healthy eating habits and supports hands-on learning across a variety of subjects such as math, science, art and writing.

“Expanding the Tower Garden Program to five school districts is an investment in the long-term health of our community. By giving students firsthand experience with growing fresh produce, we’re supporting science and sustainability while fostering healthy habits that can last a lifetime. At Goshen Health, we believe prevention starts early, and this program reflects our commitment to supporting youth and building a culture of wellness across the area.” Randy Christophel, Goshen Health President and Chief Executive Officer.

The program’s growth has enabled Goshen Health to increase the number of students impacted monthly from 600 to 5,000. Educators report increased student engagement and curiosity. “The Tower Garden brought our science unit to life,” said Bethanne Campbell, teaching assistant at Eastwood Elementary. “Students were eager to observe plant growth daily and became genuinely excited about science.”