Harvest Hope Farm Donates Over 700 Pounds of Fresh Produce

A small yet impactful initiative in Moorhead, Minnesota, is significantly enhancing children’s nutrition through fresh produce donations. Harvest Hope Farm has contributed more than 700 pounds of fruits and vegetables to Peace Academy Preschool in Fargo, North Dakota. This generous effort is made possible by a year-round growing dome funded by state grants.

The growing dome project received financial backing of $15,000 from the North Central Region Sustainable Agriculture Research and Education Program, alongside a $50,000 grant from the Minnesota Department of Agriculture. These funds enabled the farm to cultivate a variety of fresh produce, including peas, beans, carrots, cherry tomatoes, and squash.

Promoting Healthy Eating and Nutrition Education

Harvest Hope Farm aims to foster better eating habits among preschoolers by providing them with fresh, locally grown produce. The farm’s commitment extends for the next two years, during which all produce harvested from the dome will be donated to the preschool. This initiative not only increases the fiber content in the children’s diets but also introduces them to a wider array of fresh foods.

In addition to the donations from Harvest Hope Farm, Peace Academy Preschool operates a hydroponic garden that supplies lettuce for its students. This program reinforces the importance of nutrition education, teaching children about healthy eating in a hands-on manner.

With this collaborative effort, both Harvest Hope Farm and Peace Academy Preschool are making strides toward improving community health and encouraging young children to embrace nutritious foods. Through these initiatives, they are setting a foundation for healthier eating habits that can last a lifetime.