Organic Farm-cum-Herbal Garden
We believe a healthy diet is a very important part of preventive health care. Therefore, we have turned a piece of vacant land in front of our centre in Tampines with the approval from the Town Council, into an organic farm which is now supplying chemical free vegetables to the Elderly and children under our care. The farm also serves as a ‘nature classroom’ for our children and makes our environment greener and closer to the concept of a ‘kampung’.
In this mini-farm, we create an environment that allows everyone to come closer to Mother Nature. Volunteers sweat it out in the farm that is full of vegetables and herbs, truly experiencing what it means to reap what one sows. They recycle fallen leaves and twigs to create compost. Their efforts ensure that our Elderly, children and volunteers are able to eat chemical-free fresh vegetables throughout the year. Our natural organic farm is a living classroom that helps everyone to appreciate nature and be environmental friendly. Our "kampung" children can be seen playing in the farm, learning to grow life and getting close to nature.
Good health and protection for the environment begin with our food intake. Through the efforts of our volunteers, we are able to eat chemical-free vegetables. We also choose to use chemical-free products such as organic brown rice. By doing so, you and I play a part in preventing more chemicals from contaminating the earth and water supplies and in maintaining our health.
In addition, we are aware that there is a consistent growing number of people who strive toward a healthier lifestyle and a greener earth. Many of these people are interested in organic foods that are chemical-free and environmentally sound. However, there are concerns that organic foods are pricier than the common food items from the supermarket or wet market, and that organic foods are relatively less accessible with so few suppliers and varieties. Furthermore, for those who are new to organic foods, they tend to be unsure about the use and preparation of these organic products. Thus, many people either hold back their decision of opting for organic foods or simply consume limited quantity of organic foods.
With the objectives to promote green lifestyle and to create more awareness through public education, a volunteer group with Kampung Senang is formed," The Green Workshop" who believes mostly organic and natural foods to address these concerns. In May 2002, we set up a support group for those individual households team up to purchase organic foods in bulk. As a group, we can have direct link to the wholesale market and the organic farmers, and can get good prices for bulk purchases. The group functions on a voluntary basis and is non-profit making in nature.