At Harris Farm Markets, we believe that good food has the power to bring people together, inspire healthier choices and create a more sustainable future. That's why, through our Neighbourhood Goodness program, we're proud to support community initiatives that help people build lifelong connections with fresh food.
One initiative bringing this to life is the Stephanie Alexander Kitchen Garden Program at Calare Public School in Orange.
For more than 10 years, the program has been giving students the opportunity to grow, harvest, cook and share fresh, seasonal food. Every fortnight, around 200 students from Year 3 and 4 roll up their sleeves to learn practical skills that go far beyond the classroom.
From understanding compost, soil health and water conservation to recognising when fruit and vegetables are ready to harvest, students experience first-hand where food comes from. They then take that produce into the school's purpose-built kitchen, where they prepare and enjoy meals together using the ingredients they've grown.
It's an approach that encourages curiosity, confidence and healthier eating habits, while teaching the importance of caring for the environment and reducing waste.
Like many gardens, the program faces seasonal challenges. During the colder months in Orange, fresh produce can be harder to grow, making community support especially valuable in helping students continue their cooking lessons throughout the year.
Through Neighbourhood Goodness, Harris Farm Markets is pleased to support programs like this that promote food education, sustainability and stronger local communities. By helping schools continue these hands-on experiences, we're investing in the next generation of growers, cooks and conscious consumers.
We love seeing young people discover the joy of fresh food, and we look forward to supporting more community initiatives that make a lasting difference.
