From Farm to Family: Harvest Hub Boosts Local Food and Community Health

By Christen Coddington, Coordinator of Special Programs

Offering local, nutrient-dense food curated with care into delicious optional recipes makes the Harvest Hub one of the most sought-after programs of the season! 

This popular program focuses on nutrition security with no income restrictions to help create financial ease for participants while providing the highest quality ingredients and boosting our local farming and food economy. 

This collaborative program expanded in its second year to include even more farms and local businesses. The concept originated under the direction of the Population Health, Innovation, and Informatics Unit within the Garrett County Health Department with a competitive grant from the Maryland Department of Health. In the program’s second year, additional competitive funding from the Maryland Community Health Resources Commission has enhanced the offerings.

Serving 180 families, meal box distributions were held by special appointment on July 25, August 29, and September 12 at 360 Access Hub, located at 360 West Liberty Street in Oakland. Each distribution comprised 60 meal boxes, featuring recipes curated in partnership by Chef Rob Scardina and students from Garrett County Public Schools, and was supplied with a variety of fresh, locally sourced products from community-supported agriculture (CSAs) such as Garrett Growers.  

The Department of Social Services was also on-site to assist participants in reviewing eligibility for Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits and helping people sign up. Additionally, partners from Healthy Together, an AHEC West program, conducted social screenings to connect participants with additional community services.

Local volunteers assisted team members of the Population Health, Innovation, and Informatics Unit within the Garrett County Health Department, alongside other partners like the GCPS (Garrett County Public Schools) Summer Food Services program. The meal boxes were received with great appreciation by all. 

Program recipients reported 100% improved outcomes in nutrition and well-being and one recipient stated, “I received a food box that included all fresh items. For the first time I got to use a recipe with fresh thyme and zucchini and squash. It was amazing. I never knew how to use thyme before. I’ve made it three times since then.”

Program Director, Shelley Argabrite, MA, reflected, “This is one of the most rewarding programs our team implements. Financial investment in our local farms to feed our community is a tremendous gift. Chef Scardina and the students make the educational process so much fun with recipes that we can all continue to use! I’d like to thank all of our partners who helped make this happen.”

To watch the interactive recipe videos and to sign up for future events and programs, visit GoGarrettCountyPlus.com.

Cutline: Pictured above, from left to right are Christen Coddington, Shelley Argabrite, Chef Rob Scardina (Garrett County Public Schools), and Martin Kraska.