By: Pamela Honey

CBS New York Visits TFFJ Hydroponic Farm at Urban Assembly Maker Academy

CBS New York featured the TFFJ  hydroponic farm at the Murry Bergtraum Educational Campus’s Urban Assembly Maker Academy on June 12. Reporter Chris Wragge spoke with students about the farm’s growth since it launched in January 2025 and what it means for their school community.

Students described the operation’s expansion from a small classroom setup to its current scale, growing produce including cucumbers, kale, basil, and arugula. The farm produces 10,000 pounds annually, supplying the cafeteria salad bar, student families, and twice-monthly distributions across the full campus, including staff and security personnel. Every Thursday, the farm shares produce with Gotham Park, TFFJ’s community partner, which distributes to seniors and residents in nearby NYCHA housing.

Student Marcus P. connected the work to food justice, telling CBS that everyone deserves access to high-quality, healthy produce, regardless of where they live. Student Fama S.l pointed to a gap many students recognize: a lack of healthy food options in schools and neighborhoods across New York City.

You can watch the full segment on CBS New York’s website.❦

Pamela Honey is the Communications & Content Coordinator at Teens for Food Justice.