Henry Community Health (HCH) is pleased to announce an exciting new partnership with the New Castle Community Career Center to establish a community garden on HCH property. This collaborative initiative will harness the energy and dedication of Career Center students and faculty to grow fresh produce for local food pantries, directly addressing food insecurity in the Henry County community.
The project was set in motion when the HCH Foundation President approached the New Castle Community Career Center with a vision to use HCH’s grounds as a productive space for community good. Career Center Director Mackenzie Johnson embraced the idea without hesitation, offering an enthusiastic “yes” and committing her institution’s full support.
Leading the charge on the ground is Angie Talbot, Health Occupations Instructor at the New Castle Career Center. Mrs. Talbot has devoted countless hours to developing comprehensive schedules for planting, weeding, and harvesting, as well as coordinating a volunteer rotation of students and faculty who will tend the garden throughout the growing season. Her hands-on leadership has been instrumental in transforming this vision into a fully operational plan.
Career Center students and faculty along with HCH team members will volunteer their time to plant, weed, and harvest the garden’s produce. All proceeds from the harvest will be donated directly to local food pantries, ensuring that fresh, nutritious food reaches those in need throughout the community.
“This garden is a beautiful extension of our vision to lead our community to a healthier future,” said Cori Morris, HCH Chief Operating Officer. “Partnering with the New Castle Career Center allows us to invest in our students while also putting food on the tables of our neighbors who need it most. We are cultivating careers, community, and wellness. We are incredibly proud of this collaboration.”
“The HCH Foundation exists to support initiatives that strengthen our community, and this garden is a perfect example of that spirit in action, “ said Duke Hamm, HCH Foundation President. “Seeing students, healthcare professionals, and community members come together around a common goal is truly inspiring. This garden will make a difference for families in Henry County.”
Henry Community Health and the New Castle Career Center are proud to model the spirit of community partnership, and both organizations look forward to a flourishing garden season and a meaningful impact on local hunger relief efforts.
Special thanks to Hayden Ooten for generously tilling the ground and helping prepare the site, making it ready for this season’s planting.