A new partnership between Reach Within and the New Life Organization Inc. (NEWLO) is set to expand opportunities for young people while strengthening food security through climate-smart agriculture.

Funded by the Sandals Foundation at a cost of EC $ 113,422, the initiative, known as the Reach Within & NEWLO Flex Farm Project (FFP), will introduce hydroponic farming systems at NEWLO’s Life Skills and Vocational Training Centre from April 2026 - April 2027.

More than 80 young people will receive hands-on training in hydroponic farming, preparing them for opportunities in sustainable agriculture and other climate-smart industries. The programme will also engage younger students and community members, helping to build awareness of modern farming techniques.

The project is expected to produce more than 1,000 pounds of fresh produce annually, contributing to improved access to nutritious food in vulnerable communities.

Founder and Director of Reach Within, Dr. Karen Lawson, underscored the importance of introducing young people to innovative approaches to agriculture.

“It is critical that our young people are exposed to modern, climate-smart methods of farming like hydroponics. Agriculture is evolving, and if we want the next generation to see it as a viable and exciting career path, we must equip them with the right tools and knowledge. This project helps bridge that gap while addressing food security and resilience.”

NEWLO, which provides training to more than 200 youth each year, will lead implementation on the ground, including the integration of hydroponics into its existing programmes.

Sister Margaret Yamoah, Chief Executive Officer of NEWLO welcomed the partnership with excitement stating, “This project will set the pace for the introduction of NEWLO’s Agribusiness programme under the OECS Skills and Innovative Project.”

For the Sandals Foundation, the support represents an alignment with its Caribbean-wide effort to strengthen local food systems.

“We are beyond proud to continue our partnership with Reach Within building on the agriculture and nutrition programme that began in 2024. The capacity of our communities to grow more of what they eat despite the changing climate will be vital to strengthening national security and food autonomy,” says Patrice Gilpin, Public Relations Manager at the Sandals Foundation.

Three hydroponic Flex Farm systems will be installed at the NEWLO facility, supported by training and a digital educational curriculum from the project’s technical partner Fork Farms.

The Flex Farm from Fork Farms is an all-in-one indoor hydroponic growing system designed for schools and organizations, combining fresh food production with hands-on learning. Compact and mobile, one Flex Farm can grow more than 25 pounds of fresh produce every 28 days delivering year-round, hyper-local, sustainable food production while transforming classrooms into living labs, engaging students in STEM, sustainability, nutrition, and real-world problem-solving. “Fork Farms is proud to partner with Reach Within and NEWLO to expand access to fresh food and drive sustainable change in the community,” said Josh Mahlik, Partnership Development Director at Fork Farms. “This partnership is a powerful example of how we can continue advancing our mission to inspire sustainability and transform the way communities grow and think about food.”

An Agricultural Fellow will also support training delivery and day-to-day operations. The project includes grant support for equipment, training, and initial operational costs. NEWLO will take responsibility for sustaining the systems after the first year. Both organisations say they are committed to monitoring the project’s impact and exploring opportunities to expand hydroponic agriculture across Grenada.