David Coram, GM

Healing is more than treating a disease, an illness or a condition. It means caring for someone’s complete physical and emotional well-being. It means supporting guests, doctors, nurses and non-clinical staff to enhance the healing process. Committed to implementing programs that care for its patients’ complete physical and emotional well-being, Wolfson Children’s Hospital at Baptist Medical Center has found a way to do just that.

A few months ago, David Coram, Sodexo General Manager of Dining Services at Baptist, started a rooftop garden cared for by staff and pediatric patients. The patients help grow the food they will eventually eat. Coram says the idea came to him during last year’s pediatric food conference in Dallas, TX. During a best practice session, each participant shared innovative ideas implemented at individual accounts. After listening to each participant’s ideas, the one that resonated with him was a children’s garden. “The idea was born out of a collaboration of Sodexo people sharing ideas,” said David.

After bringing the idea back to his client and staff, the idea took wings. “It gives the pediatric patients the opportunity to come out of their rooms for a little while and get some fresh air,” he continued. David went on to mention that he provided garden journals to the little “farmers” to keep track of their progress. The ultimate goal is to turn this small planter into a full garden. The benefits to these little farmers are more than just good eats.

The Florida Times Union reported on this innovative program. To read their article online, click here.

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