By Michele Hockwalt
Community Health Network

ANDERSON — Community Hospital Anderson Thursday, Sept. 7, celebrated the expansion of its onsite farm, which helps address one of the biggest concerns for central Indiana families: access to nutritious foods.

Through support from the Community Hospital Anderson Foundation, the hospital expanded a one-half acre plot to three acres with a dedicated farmer to grow and harvest fresh produce which will be distributed to Madison County food banks, organizations and patients. The expansion also includes a new community center.

Madison County ranks 12th out of Indiana’s 92 counties and more than 35% higher than the national average.

“Our medical staff does a great job of taking care of us when we are in the hospital. But Community Hospital Anderson’s responsibility for the health and well-being of the community goes beyond the walls of the hospital,” said Tom Bannon, vice president of community engagement and chief foundation officer at Community Hospital Anderson. “How can we create a healthier community? How can we create opportunities for physical activity and provide access to healthy and nutritious food? How do we keep people from having to be in the hospital in the first place? Those are questions we ask on a daily basis. The Community Farm is one of the answers.”

About 30 thousand pounds of produce is expected to be harvested from the farm, which will be distributed free to the community next year. It also includes a 200 thousand-bee beehive, a flower garden, greenhouse, gazebo, and walking paths. A community center with demonstration kitchens will provide educational programming and show visitors how to prepare nutritious meals. The Jetty Center is named in honor of Dr. Preetham Jetty.

Community Anderson Foundation and hospital leaders, representatives of local food banks, community leaders, and the public celebrated the farm expansion and opening of the new community center Thursday.

“Our mission is to enhance the health and well-being of our communities,” said Marsha Meckel, administrator and chief nursing executive at Community Hospital Anderson. “We know food insecurity is a concern in Madison County. As Anderson’s largest employer, we have a responsibility to find solutions. We think this farm is a good start.”

Community was the first hospital in the state to have an in-ground farm located on its campus. Learn more about the history of the Community Farm.