CBS News’ Stephanie Stahl visited Eisenhower Science & Technology Leadership Academy in Norristown recently to learn about a new learning project that will also help fight food insecurity.

Through a partnership with Jefferson Health and the Norristown Area School District, the school now has a Green Bronx Machine hydroponic garden which grows plants without soil, writes Stephanie Stahl and Adam Fox at CBS News.

Green Bronx Machine’s mission is to build healthier communities by teaching students urban agriculture. Food deserts in places like Norristown make it difficult for residents to get the fresh fruits and vegetables they need to live healthy lives.

“Considering where we are, it’s harder to get healthier options,” eighth-grader, Clare Ely said.

The new tower garden at the school will be able to grow “anything from tomatoes, peppers and lettuce to herbs, strawberries,” said Don Conaway, STEM coordinator at the school.

The produce will be shared with the community and students.

A healthy diet is especially important for growing children, Dr. Charles Pohl, a Jefferson Health pediatrician, said.

“In addition to having growth delay, we know having inadequate nutritional diet can result in developmental delay which is brain growth.

Read more about the new vertical garden at Eisenhower Science & Technology Leadership Academy at CBS News.

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Learn more about the vertical garden.