Season of change continues with garden harvest at Center for Mental Health & Addiction
“Katie envisioned a space where we could decompress,” said Natalie Kalahar, the lead therapist at the center. “A place to weed, pick veggies or just sit — whatever someone needed in that moment.”
Katie, who manages addiction services at the center, provided some plants and brought others from a local school. She and Natalie got them in the ground. Other team members, including Marisha Thomasson, an addiction counselor, took on the weeding.
Then, a nearby neighbor added a surprise.
“A rabbit made a nest in the garden,” said Natalie. “So, we got to see baby bunnies grow up along with the plants.”
By summer, rows of radishes, peppers, carrots and corn were taking root. Tomatoes, squash, lavender and basil were blooming, and a few pumpkin plants showed promise.
Before long, harvesting started. Although the corn was lost to critters, there were other veggies to share — mainly with staff members and a few patients.
“Tomatoes and peppers kept us busy into September,” said Natalie. “And there’s still hope one of those pumpkins will make it to Halloween.”
Meanwhile, conversations about next year’s garden are already underway, including ways to get plant donations and broaden the gardening team.
“Our goal is for patients to help in the garden and to enjoy more of its harvest,” said Natalie.
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