Growing Leafy Greens with Hydroponics:

A New Chapter in the Not Just A Food Program

After years of research, testing, and building prototypes, I’m excited to share the next phase of the Not Just A Food Program's journey. One of my long-term goals has been to create a self-sustaining, transitional housing program, but at the heart of that vision is a commitment to providing free, healthy, and nutritious food to those in need. Today, I’m moving forward with a new project focused on growing leafy greens and herbs using hydroponics—an efficient, space-saving method that will play a key role in supporting the community.

The Vision: Self-Funding, Sustainable Solutions

This project is part of my broader effort to create sustainable food solutions for the ILFJL Collective. I’ve spent years researching and testing various methods, and I’m now ready to scale up my efforts. The goal is to have all our seeds started in a shared, small space and grow them in containers that can later be moved into nutrient-filled solutions as they mature. These approaches will make it possible to grow a variety of plants in a compact, efficient system that meets our community's needs.

Testing and Prototypes: Building Toward a Final Solution

I’ve already tested some hydroponic growing methods, and one of the most promising is growing tomatoes for the program. The materials used are largely recycled or freely provided, with minimal one-time expenses. By experimenting with these methods, I’m refining my approach to growing different types of plants—especially leafy greens and herbs, which are staples in the diet of those we serve.

Why Hydroponics?

I initially considered purchasing ready-made tower gardens, but the high initial costs made it impractical. So, I decided to build my own customized hydroponic systems. By designing and constructing these solutions, I can tailor them to fit the specific needs of our program, and eventually share these designs with others looking to grow food sustainably.

The beauty of hydroponics is that it doesn’t require large plots of land or traditional gardening tools. It uses nutrient solutions to feed the plants, and by creating efficient systems, we can grow more food in smaller spaces, reducing waste and providing fresh, healthy food year-round.

The First Prototype: Efficient Growing Systems

In the coming weeks, I’ll be working on my first hydroponic growing rack designed to maximize space and efficiency, especially in small areas like my apartment. These racks will range from 3 to 5 feet in length and will be made from food-grade PVC materials. The goal is to create containers that are adaptable, allowing different types of plants to be grown together, with space for harvesting and replanting as the needs change.

While I’ll be purchasing the initial materials for this project, I’m hopeful that, over time, I’ll be able to source recycled materials from home renovations and construction sites. These repurposed materials will help reduce costs and contribute to a more sustainable growing model. The more we can reuse, the less waste we create—and the more resources we can put into growing food for the community.

Looking Ahead: Building Support and Awareness

This is just the beginning. The next steps involve building the infrastructure needed to make this system scalable and efficient. Once the first prototype is complete, I plan to share it with others, hoping it will inspire more people to join this effort. Over time, as we build support for the Not Just A Food Program, we will expand the reach of these growing methods, creating new ways for people to help provide healthy food to those who need it most.

This project is part of a larger vision to create lasting change in our community. I know that this journey will take time—raising awareness and fostering understanding are key steps in building a more sustainable future. But with patience, collaboration, and continued dedication, we will grow together, creating a stronger, healthier community for all.

Stay tuned for more updates as this project evolves, and thank you for being part of this incredible journey.