A Farm on the Roof: Hospital Patients are Given Vegetables and Fruits Grown on the Roof

In Boston, a farm was set up on a hospital’s roof. Fruits and vegetables are used to make a meal for the patients. The hospital’s management believes that “healthy food is the best medicine”, writes “Agro-Center”.

They grow cabbage, herbs, tomatoes, herbs and greens, carrots, peppers, zucchini, beans, eggplants, etc. Over one hundred volunteers look after the farm and help grow about 300 kg of fruits and vegetables per year.

The farm insulates the building, which reduces cooling and heating costs and absorbs rainwater, which would otherwise end up on the city streets.

“Food is medicine. That’s why we do it,”

said David Maffeo, senior director of hospital support.

“Most people associate hospitals with horrible food, while patients need the most nutritious food,”

said Lindsay Allen, farm manager.

As a social organization, Boston Medical Center cares primarily for low-income patients and the elderly. They provide free gardening, cooking, and nutrition classes, as well as free meals for low-income families.