ProMedica Farms Awarded a Michigan Health Endowment Fund Grant

The Michigan Health Endowment Fund awarded a grant for more than $400,000 to ProMedica Farms, ProMedica announced today. This two-year grant will support and expand the work started in 2017 on the farm by providing a new living laboratory for youth, seniors, and families; a therapeutic healing space for patients and staff of ProMedica Charles and Virginia Hickman Hospital; and fresh, locally grown food to members of the Lenawee community.

“Aligned with our vision to create communities where all individuals reach their highest potential for health, this project will use ProMedica Farms as a central hub to support initiatives that address the Social Determinants of Health within Lenawee County, such as access to food and education,” says Frank Nagle, manager of population health and community relations, ProMedica.

ProMedica Farms on the campus of ProMedica Charles and Virginia Hickman Hospital is available for everyone to access fresh fruits and vegetables, as well as opportunities for education and therapy. ProMedica Farms includes a farmhouse for community meetings and workshops, a historical barn for farmers’ markets, and a clinical hoop house. Additionally, the farm features a 1,800 square foot garage that is converted into a health and nutrition learning center.

“We are grateful for the Michigan Health Endowment Fund grant opportunity. This grant will go a long way in supporting community collaborations that increase access to affordable fresh produce, evidence-based educational opportunities, and gardening workshops,” says Julie Yaroch, DO, President, ProMedica Bixby and Herrick Hospitals. “We will be well equipped to direct patients and residents to resources that address their specific health needs.”

For more information, please contact ProMedica.Farms@ProMedica.org.