ECU Health Beaufort Hospitala campus of ECU Health Medical Center, brought the community together to celebrate healthy living during its third annual fall harvest event. Held at the Community Wellbeing Zone next to the ECU Wellness and Health Center in Washington, the event offered fresh produce, free health screenings and opportunities to learn about nutrition and wellness.
Participants harvested sweet potatoes, leafy greens and fresh herbs, while enjoying the educational atmosphere. The space, designed to promote wellbeing and community engagement, includes 10 raised beds for vegetables, two large planters for herbs, a storage shed and outdoor learning spaces.
“This event is about more than just providing fresh vegetables,” said Dr. Tammy Thompson, ECU Health director of experience, engagement, education and design. “We promote wellness habits and create a space where the community can connect, learn and thrive. Hosting this event at the Wellness Center also allows us to highlight the resources available to help members of the community adopt a healthy lifestyle.
In addition to the harvest, the event included free health screenings aboard a mobile bus and tours of the ECU Health Wellness Center. Community members received tips on growing food at home, nutritional advice and information on exercise, further highlighting the importance of holistic health. The event offered attendees fresh vegetable soup and hot apple cider during the garden tour.