Public Health Association Launches Mobile Garden for People with Disabilities
The Public Health Association launched an accessible 'Mobile Garden' project, bringing nature and planting workshops to 200 children and adults with physical and cognitive disabilities.
A colorful event led by the Public Health Association, in partnership with Keren Kayemeth LeIsrael-Jewish National Fund and the National Insurance Institute funds, offered 200 participants an accessible escape from closed living and learning environments into open natural spaces. Throughout the day, children and young people enjoyed challenging ODT activities, craft workshops, outdoor cooking, games, and planted blooming pots with their own hands.
The Mobile Garden Initiative
The highlight of the day was "The Mobile Garden," a dedicated trailer attached to a special vehicle, fully committed to bringing nature to every corner. The garden is equipped with potting soil, a wealth of herbs, flowers, potted plants, and tools. It is fully accessible to wheelchair users, people with walkers, and those with physical and cognitive disabilities.
The idea for the venture was led by Amal Mussa, the association's Northern Health Promotion and Environmental Quality Manager, following an encounter with reality on the ground: "The connection to nature seems obvious to most of us, but for people with disabilities, it is sometimes an impassable challenge."
Bringing Nature to Everyone
Mussa explains how "The Mobile Garden" was born out of this pain—an innovative program operating with the support of the National Insurance Institute funds. Every day the mobile garden is on the move, it enables dozens of children, youth, and adults with disabilities to touch nature and experience blooming, renewal, and independent action.
"Sometimes nature is a dream, and dreams are meant to come true," Mussa noted.
At the end of the activity, every participant went home with a personal potted plant they grew themselves, along with guidance on how to nurture it. Yasmin Nahum, CEO of the Public Health Association, concluded: "Health promotion and environmental quality are our core values. The Mobile Garden is a testament to our commitment to making services accessible to every member of the public."
