The Department of Clinical Nutrition at UCLA, in collaboration with the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs Whole Health Program, recently showcased the first harvest of the season at the Veteran’s Garden at the West Los Angeles VA Medical Center campus. The garden, which is the largest farm integrated within a health system in the country, was previously abandoned until a restoration effort was led by Jennifer Allen in 2021.
The garden now features 20 raised beds with a variety of plants such as Swiss chard, cabbage, peppers, arugula, spinach, carrots, radishes, and eggplant. Spring will bring a new crop including tomatoes, basil, cucumbers, and strawberries. The garden not only provides fresh produce for 1,200 Veterans but also offers agricultural therapy, which has been beneficial for many individuals.
Navy Veteran Marc Michot and other veterans were actively involved in the garden, installing a drip system for the tomato patch and helping with the food distribution program. This partnership between the VA’s Whole Health Department and UCLA Health aims to provide more resources for agricultural therapy in the clinical garden, enhancing the overall well-being of Veterans.
The VA and UCLA collaboration has revitalized the once-abandoned garden, creating a space for healing, growth, and community engagement. With the support of various stakeholders and the dedication of Veterans like William Tucker, the garden has become a symbol of resilience and transformation at the West Los Angeles VA campus.
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