By: Nainika Kristapati
American Red Cross Service to the Armed Forces volunteers gathered on Saturday, June 10, 2023, at the Garland Veteran Affairs Medical Center to plant a perennial garden and micro-orchard. Their goal was the beautification of the outdoor space at the soon-to-be-opened medical center for disabled and wheelchair-bound veterans to enjoy.
“Patients will be able to utilize this space for outdoor time, and garden therapy activities, while engaging and harvesting the fruit and vegetable products that can be grown here,” said Shannon Niehus, a Volunteer Deputy Representative for the Service to Armed Forces in North Texas.
Many of the patients that live in this area have limited opportunities to experience outdoor areas as around 90% of the patients have PTSD. The introduction of perennial gardening and micro-orcharding allows individuals to engage in the growing season each spring when plants have the capability to regrow each year with maximum diversity. Engaging in daily gardening routines provides a structure that can lower levels of stress and anxiety, helping patients improve their mental health.
“I hope people who see the garden will enjoy and rest among these beautiful green plants and flowers. It gives me profound joy being around it at this moment too,” said Robin Lightstone, a member of the Dallas community.
The volunteers collaborated with each other and made plans to use garden training tools to extend the garden around the fences of the medical center. They want to have the area filled with bright vines and make comfortable space for the patients to visit with their family and friends.
“When hospital patients come out to the deck and are able to see all the inviting plants in the garden area, it will make them feel at home as if it is in their very own backyard,” said Noel Ramirez, a representative from the VA Center for Development and Civic Engagement. “We hope to beautify the area to grow their happiness and enjoyment just as plants can.”
Support all the urgent humanitarian needs of the American Red Cross.
Find a drive and schedule a blood donation appointment today.
Your time and talent can make a real difference in people’s lives. Discover the role that's right for you and join us today!