STEPHENVILLE, Texas — Tarleton State University and community partner Opal’s Farm are teaming up to offer urban farming classes as part of an initiative to address food insecurity and health disparities by making nutritious foods more accessible.
Taste the C.U.R.E. (Community Urban Farming Resource Education) is a free six-month program that equips participants with the knowledge and skills to cultivate a sustainable food system through organic and regenerative farming. Led by Tarleton State and Opal’s Farm, the initiative emphasizes empowering individuals to grow their own food and improve their health through agriculture. The first cohort will have openings for 25 dedicated participants, with plans for broader community engagement and long-term impact.
“This program offers a unique opportunity for community members to learn valuable skills in organic and regenerative farming,” said Dr. Dana Fitzpatrick, Director for Civic and Community Connections for the Division of Global, Community and First-gen Initiatives. “We’re excited to empower individuals to become more self-sufficient and environmentally conscious.”
The program starts Jan. 25, 2025, with an introductory class and continues bimonthly on Saturdays. Classes will be held at Tarleton @ TCC Trinity River, fifth floor of the West Fork Tower (TRWF). Plots will be reserved at Opal’s Farm for the hands-on practice component.
“With the city of Fort Worth being one of Tarleton State’s steadfast supporters, we want to ensure that we also support its residents,” said Dr. Sherri Benn, Vice President for Global, Community and First-gen Initiatives.“We strive to be a resource for low-income residents and those without reliable transportation who may lack access to supermarkets or food retailers that provide organic, nutritious options.”
Taste the C.U.R.E. focuses on providing residents with the tools needed to grow their own food and possibly even take their produce to market, making it available for the community and alleviating the shortage of fresh produce in some neighborhoods, said Gregory Joel, manager of Opal’s Farm. Growing and consuming nutrient-rich fruits and vegetables can help residents improve their health and combat chronic diseases such as heart disease, stroke, diabetes and some cancers.
To learn more and apply for the classes, visit www.tarleton.edu/gcfgi/opals-farm/.
A founding member of The Texas A&M System, Tarleton State University is breaking records — in enrollment, research, scholarship, athletics, philanthropy and engagement — while transforming the lives of approximately 18,000 students in Stephenville, Fort Worth, Waco, Bryan and online. For 125 years, Tarleton State has been committed to accessible higher education opportunities for all while helping students grow academically, socially and professionally through programs that emphasize real world learning and address regional, state and national needs.