Organic vegetables and herbs grown in a co-op garden behind Lakehead Psychiatric Hospital (LPH) will be served at St. Joseph’s Hospital and LPH in Thunder Bay Ontario, according to an article on the News Ledger website.

This year’s crop includes: beets, carrots, cabbage, potatoes, tomatoes, lettuce, celery, pumpkins, strawberries, green peppers, onions, chives, basil, oregano and thyme.

“I am passionate about preparing healthy meals using the freshest ingredients,” said Chef Julie Nix, who works for Sodexo’s Nutrition and Food Services, which does all the cooking for St. Joseph’s Care Group (SJCG). “Fresh is better. Fresh is tastier. Fresh is healthier.”

At the end of its fourth growing season, the Green Werks Garden produces organically-grown vegetables and provides employment experience for consumers of mental health services. 

The goal is to produce more than 2,000 pounds of produce this summer, and to offer at least seven clients employment and training opportunities, as part of SJCG’s Employment Options program.

“On-site food production is a simple way to generate revenue and put fresh food in the kitchens,” said Dr. Phil Mount from Wilfrid Laurier University and My Sustainable Canada.

Read the article.