In ARTD451, we were assigned to research ethical issues in America, and I focused my project on addressing food insecurity and the challenges faced by those living in food deserts. My goal was to develop a solution that not only addresses the problem but also educates individuals about the underlying causes and empowers them to become part of the solution.
Foster Fresh is an innovative solution to food insecurity that provides an interactive urban farming experience, essential skills training through an engaging booklet, and connections to local resources, fostering a united community in the fight against food insecurity.
I organized my research into a Miro board, starting with a critical analysis of government programs and their failures to support communities effectively. Inspired by Growing Home—a nonprofit dedicated to combating food insecurity—I shifted my focus to urban farming. This journey fueled my curiosity, leading me to explore its pros and cons while outlining practical steps for individuals to establish urban farms in or near their apartments, empowering communities with the tools they need to thrive.
I met with Megan Morrison, the Marketing and Outreach Coordinator at Growing Home, to gain insights into the organization's origins, current projects, and future aspirations. Growing Home focuses on employing, educating, and cultivating produce for residents in food deserts. Their approach to effecting gradual change in the world was invaluable in my exploration of solutions to support those affected by food deserts.
I set out with a vision to create an experience that could adapt to any form of housing, reaching people where they are. By designing a box filled with items that educate users about urban farming and clarify concepts related to food insecurity and food deserts, I envisioned a powerful solution for communities in Chicago, IL. This portable and shareable box would ignite curiosity and promote awareness.
Through invaluable feedback from my peers and professor, I realized that effective education often transcends traditional teaching methods. I discovered that solutions seamlessly woven into users' lives are far more likely to be embraced. My peers encouraged me to infuse every aspect of my "care package" with aesthetics that are both appealing and inviting, fostering a sense of playfulness.
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Seeds: Includes green onions, hot peppers, potatoes, radishes, and tomatoes.
Planter Bags: Comes with starter soil for easy planting.
Booklet: Features recipes, composting instructions, an introduction to urban farming, and garden care guidelines.
Box: Made from compostable materials, designed with folding instructions to transform into a planter.
This project is one of my favorites to date, as I thoroughly enjoyed delving into the systemic reasons behind the ongoing prevalence of food insecurity worldwide. It allowed me to refine my research skills and conduct interviews that shaped my direction. I was able to explore a new style and create something exciting and fresh that I wouldn't have experienced anywhere else.
With a bit more time, I’d love to turn each of these deliverables into tangible products and test Foster Fresh in real-life settings! My dream is to create a solution that families can truly use to ease the worries and costs surrounding their next meal. I’m also eager to reach out to Growing Home again and collaborate on making this vision a reality together!