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A garden grows in Norwich

August 15, 2025

Backus Hospital colleagues joined representatives from Levo International, St. Vincent de Paul and the Jefferey P. Ossen Foundation for a tour of the hospital’s new hydroponic garden.

The hydroponic garden — which joined a growing number of such spaces across Hartford HealthCare — got a recent boost thanks to a $10,000 grant from the Jeffrey P. Ossen Family Foundation. The innovative addition to the campus reflects Backus’ commitment to promoting sustainable practices, enhancing nutrition and supporting community wellness.

“We are excited to launch this sustainable initiative that will provide fresh, healthy food options to our community,” said Donna Handley, Backus president.

The 3,500-square-foot garden behind the former daycare center was started in May as part of HHC’s Food4Health program. It joins similar gardens at Windham, Hartford and Charlotte Hungerford hospitals.