The Kent Black Action Commission (KBAC) has launched an inspiring new program called KBAC CARES, aimed at encouraging community members to grow their own healthy food while fostering a sense of well-being. Under the leadership of Mr. Charles Carston, the initiative focuses on micro-farming, a process that involves growing green vegetables and fruits on a small scale, which are then distributed to underserved communities throughout Kent.
With the rise of food insecurity and limited access to fresh, healthy produce in certain areas, KBAC CARES offers a grassroots solution that empowers residents to cultivate their own nutritious food. Through workshops, mentorship, and community engagement, KBAC staff work with local participants to teach essential gardening skills, from planting and harvesting to maintaining small-scale crops in their own backyards or community gardens.
“This initiative is about more than just food—it’s about health, self-sufficiency, and building community,” said Mr. Charles Carston, who has spearheaded the project. “By growing their own produce, people not only improve their physical health, but they also experience the mental wellness benefits that come from connecting with nature and nurturing something from the ground up.”
Micro-farming has proven to be especially helpful in promoting mental well-being, offering participants a therapeutic outlet through hands-on activities that reduce stress and promote mindfulness. In addition to growing healthy fruits and vegetables, community members who take part in the program are able to find solace in the quiet, reflective nature of tending to their plants—a benefit that has become increasingly valuable in today’s fast-paced world.
The fruits and vegetables grown through KBAC CARES include a variety of greens such as kale, spinach, and lettuce, as well as tomatoes, peppers, and other nutrient-rich produce. Once harvested, these crops are distributed to underserved neighborhoods in Kent, ensuring that even those without access to fresh food can enjoy the benefits of healthy, homegrown produce.
“We wanted to create a program that not only provided food but also gave people the tools to sustain themselves and their families,” Mr. Carston continued. “The response from the community has been overwhelmingly positive, and we’re excited to see this initiative continue to grow.”
The program has been especially impactful in underserved communities, where access to fresh produce is often limited by socioeconomic barriers. KBAC CARES aims to break down those barriers by offering resources, training, and support to anyone interested in joining the initiative.
Participants of all ages have found joy in learning about micro-farming and are contributing to a healthier, more resilient community. The program also fosters a sense of collaboration, as neighbors share gardening tips, swap produce, and work together to cultivate their gardens.
KBAC CARES is an example of how small, community-driven projects can make a big difference. As the initiative continues to expand, KBAC hopes to inspire more residents to take part in the movement toward healthy eating, mental wellness, and community sustainability. Through the power of micro-farming, KBAC CARES is not only nourishing bodies but also enriching minds and building stronger communities.
