Hydroponics STEM Program
Mission: The Hydroponics Program will serve as an instrument for developing a positive relationship between the historical influence of Black people in agriculture and the STEM advancement to healthy independent eating for youth in central city food insecure zones. Our goal is to provide a sense of pride in their history, curate a healthy eating environment and explore opportunities in underrepresented environmental career paths.
Objectives
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Increase the desire for healthy eating habits
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Supplement the lack of healthy eating choices
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Provide hands-on experience with STEM technology
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Exposure to environmental careers
Statistics to Impact
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Milwaukee has 13 food-insecure zones as of 2021
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Amani - 53% of the population are reported to be obese compared to 37% citywide
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Muskego Way - 42% of the population are reported to be obese compared to 37% citywide
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Between 2017-2021 15% (2559 total) of Agricultural Degrees were awarded to Blacks/Latinos
Target Neighborhoods
Amani
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Over half (55%) of residents live in households with incomes below the poverty line, compared to 25% for the City of Milwaukee.
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50% of residents living in households with incomes below the poverty line are 18 years old or younger.
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Median income is $24,744 resulting in 69.5% of residents are cost-burdened
​Muskego Way
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A quarter (27.9%) of neighborhood residents live in households with incomes below the poverty line, compared to 24.1% for the City of Milwaukee.
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37.3% of residents living in households with incomes below the poverty line are 18 years old or younger.
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Median income is $35,586 resulting in 52.8% of residents are cost-burdened.
Program Curriculum Overview
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Hydroponic technology
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Hands-on Planting
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Basic Botany
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Food Health Education
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Mechanical Engineering
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Entrepreneurship
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Project Management
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Community Sustainability
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Community Partners
SNAP Wisconsin Dominican Center/Amani United The Community