Food Harvest is not just a garden, it’s a movement. A powerful social initiative by Teens Take Control, brought to life through a unique collaboration with endED, Connect Kids. This program goes beyond the classroom to offer at-risk and disengaged youth and people with a disability a hands-on learning experience that empowers them with real-work skills, personal growth, and a renewed sense of belonging.
Set against the stunning backdrop of the endED property in West Woombye, Food Harvest is a one half acre, chemical-free market garden where young people dig in—literally—to learn, grow, and thrive. From propagation and planting to crop maintenance and harvesting, participants experience the full cycle of sustainable food production. But the harvest doesn’t stop there.
The fresh produce grown in the garden goes directly to Urban Angles, who use the produce to cook 15,000 meals per month, supporting local families and individuals who are doing it tough on the Sunshine Coast. It’s food with purpose—grown by youth, for the community. Every basket of veggies tells a story of resilience, connection, and the power of second chances.
But what truly sets Food Harvest apart is its beating heart: social inclusion. While most garden-based programs focus only on horticulture, we’re digging deeper.
For many of the boys, this is their first real taste of work ethic and responsibility. Some have been in state care. Some have struggled to stay in school. But here, in the soil, they find a place where they belong, a place where their effort matters. Food Harvest inspires these kids because they know what they are doing is making a positive difference to their community.
As Danny, who leads the project, says:
And it doesn’t stop with the kids. Every zucchini, cucumber, and tomato harvested goes out into the community, nourishing families, filling plates, and reminding people they’re not forgotten.
Builds work ethic, pride, and belonging for teens who have been disconnected from school and the community.
Fresh produce directly supports meals for vulnerable families across the Sunshine Coast.
Thanks to incredible generosity from the Sunshine Coast community, we’re well underway and have already installed a $21,000 irrigation system (donated by One World Courier), but to keep this garden growing and involve even more young people, we need your help.
Our next goals include:
The Food Harvest Project exists thanks to the generosity of our partners and supporters:
We’re just getting started. In 2026 and beyond, we plan to launch more programs for girls, therapeutic gardening for people recovering from eating disorders, safe spaces for women impacted by domestic violence, and activities for people living with dementia.
We’ve seen it before, smiles that don’t fade, confidence that grows, community that comes alive. That’s what this garden is really about: social inclusion, purpose, and hope.
Every dollar you give helps us plant more seeds, teach more young people, and put more meals on plates across the Sunshine Coast.
