JOURNAL OF INTEGRATIVE NUTRITION
CURRENT ISSUES
Faith-Based Recovery Farm: A Lifestyle Recovery Program for Homelessness
Hollywood, JB
FIRST PUBLISHED
2025-02-01
Article:
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ABSTRACT
Background: Traditional government-regulated programs addressing housing crises, food insecurity, or addiction are often limited in scope, focusing on housing only or time-limited solutions (i.e. 6-month program). Within these limitations permanent solutions become temporary and clients look to program re-entry. This is a result of not addressing the root causes that promote long-term recovery. The Faith-Based Recovery Farm seeks to fill this gap by providing solutions to address such challenges.
Objective: The goal is to develop a program that integrates a holistic framework to support individuals with chronic life challenges by achieving five core objectives: 1) supplying nutrient-dense food for improved mental and physical health, 2) reducing stress, 3) addressing societal food scarcity, 4) promoting spiritual and personal growth, and 5) providing sustainable housing and employment opportunities.
Methods: Participants live on farm, contribute to farm operations, learn faith-based education, and transition into a career to enable self-sufficiency and strengthen personal responsibility. The additional help on farms enhances fresh food availability in local communities.
Conclusion: The Faith-Based Recovery Farm presents an innovative, scalable model for addressing chronic life challenges as a community-driven solution.
COI STATEMENT
The authors declare no competing financial interests.
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