By: Pamela Honey
Growing More Than Food: How Rea Found Purpose in the Farm
When Rea M. first joined the Teens for Food Justice (TFFJ) elective at The Scholars Academy, she didn’t know what she was stepping into. It wasn’t a class she chose—it just landed on her schedule. But that unexpected assignment turned out to be one of the most meaningful parts of her high school experience. “At first I was kind of skeptical… but now I get to say that I’m a major role in the whole process that we get to do.”
“At first I was kind of skeptical… but now I get to say that I’m a major role in the whole process that we get to do.”
Now a 16-year-old junior, Rea is a leader on her school’s hydroponic farm. She helps grow and distribute produce, connects with students and community members, and sees herself as part of something bigger.
A New Way of Thinking About Food
Before working on the farm, Rea didn’t think much about where her food came from. She definitely didn’t like radishes. But after doing a side-by-side taste test—store-bought versus farm-grown—she was amazed.
It was fresher. More flavorful. And it completely changed her mind about vegetables.
That experience helped her realize how powerful it is to grow your own food. It made nutrition feel real, not theoretical. And it showed her just how different fresh can taste when it’s grown with care, right where you are.
What Food Justice Means to Rea
Before the program, the term “food justice” didn’t mean much to Rea. Now, it’s something she feels connected to—because she sees the gaps that exist in her own community. “More of these things should be implemented everywhere for everyone… it’s not like something easily accessible for them.”
“More of these things should be implemented everywhere for everyone… it’s not like something easily accessible for them.”
She understands that not everyone has the resources to travel for fresh produce or pay high prices at the store. For many people, that means making hard choices. Rea believes programs like TFFJ can change that—by putting fresh food, education, and opportunity in the heart of the community.
Pride in Every Smoothie and Salad
One of Rea’s proudest moments was the first time she and her classmates made smoothies and salads for the school cafeteria. Students were curious. Some were skeptical. But then they tasted them—and came back for seconds. “I get to say I’m the one that helped do that.”
“I get to say I’m the one that helped do that.”
That moment sparked something. Since then, Rea has made pasta dishes, tested different crops, and experimented with growing strawberries and peppers. She’s brought food home for her family. She’s helped friends get involved. And she’s built new connections—especially with her mom, whose own school just started a hydroponic program.
Looking Ahead: Agriculture and Beyond
Rea didn’t picture herself going into science. But now she’s thinking about studying agricultural science in college. She’s not sure what path she’ll take yet, but she wants to do something that brings knowledge and resources to people who need them.
She’s even asked for a mini hydroponic setup for her birthday.
TFFJ gave her more than a new interest. It gave her direction. A sense of purpose. And a space where she feels like she belongs. “The farm just gave me an opportunity to do something that I really like doing. And I’m just so thankful for the opportunity to have that ability.”
“The farm just gave me an opportunity to do something that I really like doing. And I’m just so thankful for the opportunity to have that ability.”
Rea’s story is one of many across TFFJ schools—students discovering new passions, finding their voice, and building something real for their communities. The farm isn’t just about growing food. It’s about growing possibilities. And for Rea, it’s only the beginning.❦
Pamela Honey is the Communications & Content Coordinator at Teens For Food Justice.
