When you think of mental healthcare, do you picture a garden? The image is familiar to residents at The Manor assisted living facility in Takoma Park, Maryland.
In 2003, Lavella Steven, a dedicated supervisor at The Manor, began creating a lush sanctuary and an added sense of purpose for residents by using his gift of growing plants.
The Manor is an assisted living facility for adults with chronic and severe mental illness who are unable to live independently. The Adventist HealthCare facility provides a safe, supportive residential environment as an alternative to long-term psychiatric hospitalization.
Lavella’s vision was simple yet profound. He began by planting tulips, daffodils, roses and shrubs around the building, taking advantage of fertile soil. Every spring, the vibrant flowers would bloom, transforming the yard into a tapestry of colors. However, deer in the area had different plans. They often turned The Manor’s garden into their personal buffet. So, Lavella fenced in the garden, protecting the flowers and preserving their beauty for the residents and team members to enjoy.
Lavella introduced a variety of vegetables – tomatoes, cucumbers, lettuce, sweet peppers, bell peppers, spring onions, hot peppers, okra and scallions. He also expanded the garden to include herbs and leafy greens such as kale, collard greens, leeks, jute leaves and cassava leaves. The garden not only provides nourishment but also fosters a sense of community and purpose for residents, who assist with growing plants.
A Source of Pride and Joy
Last year, The Manor’s expanding gardens received a boost with the help of Lavella’s colleagues from Adventist HealthCare Shady Grove Medical Center. The hospital’s Vice President of Behavioral Health Services Kandy McFarland, Director of Therapeutic Services Nyree Price and Director of Facilities Odell Hall took time to upgrade the garden fences. Lavella said the gesture is something he deeply appreciates and will always remember.
“This garden was meant to be a haven for anyone feeling stressed,” he explained. From spring through summer, residents and team members visit the garden, finding peace in observing the plants and practicing deep breathing.
This spring, Lavella and his team will add new soil, aiming to yield another harvest of fruits and vegetables. The Manor has a steamer, which allows residents to quickly cook and enjoy their homegrown produce. This year, Lavella said, a tree is stealing the show among the garden of delicious vegetables. “Our favorite plant this year is the pear tree.”
He added that the benefits of the garden extend beyond the therapeutic and nutritional advantages to residents. It’s a source of pride for team members and brings joy to visitors. Every plant is a testament to growth, resilience and the healing power of nature – a living symbol of the hope and renewal that The Manor’s care team provides.
Learn more about Adventist HealthCare’s comprehensive mental health services and programs at our website.
