TPC Wellness maintains garden at facility

Published 12:00 am Thursday, August 14, 2025

This year, staff and clients at TPC Wellness in Ironton transformed the lot next to their building in a garden, which they said helped to promote the well-being of those involved.

Lydia Sheridan, marketing specialist for the company, said the garden serves multiple purposes.

“The nurturing care applied to the seeds and plants extends to those we serve by recognizing that they, too, have similar requirements for growth and healing,” she said. “It helps people physically, spiritually and mentally.”

The garden at their site, located on Third Street in Ironton, was used to produce tomatoes, zucchini, squash, cucumbers, cantaloupes, lettuce, chives, bell peppers, banana peppers, sunflowers and zinnias.

“We recently started canning vegetables to have fresh produce into the winter months,” Sheridan said.

She said they have also shared items from their garden with local blessing boxes.

Sheridan said all plants were grown on the facility’s side lot from seeds, purchased from Pratt’s Greenhouse and Iron City Hardware.

She said the first plants were started in April and the garden is still going.

“We are still seeing tomatoes,” she said.

Sheridan said calming music is played outdoors for those working in the garden.

“It serves as a safe area for those we serve,” she said.

Elizabeth Cremeans, CEO of the company, described the positives of the garden.

“Gardening provides a multitude of therapeutic benefits, aligning with TPC Wellness’ mission to provide Trauma-Responsive Care across all communities we have the privilege to serve, promoting overall mental, physical, and spiritual wellness,” she said. “Gardening can improve mood, self-esteem, and create a sense of purpose.”

Cremeans spoke of the feedback they have received from clients.

“We have learned from countless individuals this season that they have experienced reduced stress, social connections and gained new skills,” she said. “The outdoor music speakers added to the garden have been loved by all. We look forward to expanding this important project in 2026 at all our locations across Ohio.”

Krista Lavender, clinical director for the facility, also spoke of the benefits.

“The garden has been a therapeutic and interactive addition to TPC Wellness Programming in Ironton,” she said. “I believe watching something grow from seeds and flourish relates to the individuals we are currently serving. Imagine arriving at the facility as a seed and, with nurturing, guidance and support, being able to flourish and thrive.”

Tara Bridges, operations director, echoed that sentiment.

“In our garden, growth is more than just plants — it’s about nurturing every individual we serve,” she said.

TPC Wellness specializes in mental health and addiction treatment services and has locations throughout Ohio.