AIKEN, S.C. (WJBF) – Mental Health America, a longstanding non-profit dedicated to supporting homeless women with mental illness in Aiken County, has unveiled a new initiative aimed at fostering growth and self-care among its residents.
Since its establishment in 1965, Mental Health America has been a beacon of hope in Aiken County. The Nurture Home, a transitional shelter for women diagnosed with mental health conditions, has been a crucial part of this mission since the 1980s. The shelter focuses on holistic healing, education, and eventual employment to empower women to live independently.
In a recent effort to enhance their program, Nurture Home launched the “Hope Garden” in collaboration with Grow Well Aiken County, which provided the necessary equipment and supplies. This initiative aims to bring therapeutic benefits and a sense of purpose to the residents.
“Our house manager collaborated with her farm manager to plan everything, and last Thursday, they began planting,” said BonnieAnne Fulghum, Executive Director of Mental Health America.
The creation of the Hope Garden is intended to promote self-care and mental well-being. “Self-care is crucial for mental health. Gardening is therapeutic, and witnessing the rebirth and growth of plants can instill hope, which is the essence of Nurture Home,” Fulghum explained.
Residents of Nurture Home, like Tamia Garvin, expressed their excitement about engaging in gardening for the first time. “I’ve never had the opportunity to work in a garden before. I’m looking forward to seeing how well we can grow everything,” Garvin shared.
The residents eagerly participated in planting and found the experience enjoyable and unique. “It was a really fun experience; it’s something different and exciting,” Garvin added.
In addition to enhancing their own well-being, the residents are also looking forward to giving back to the community. Fulghum noted, “They hope to grow cucumbers and tomatoes, not only for our kitchen and family here at Nurture Home but also to share with those who might be hungry. Our residents have big hearts because they understand what it’s like to be homeless.”
The Hope Garden stands as a testament to the power of community collaboration and the positive impact of nurturing both plants and people.
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