The Mezitli Municipality in the central district of Mersin is gaining significant attention with its 'Hobby Gardens Project,' implemented to support citizens in engaging in organic farming.
The 'Hobby Gardens Project,' an important initiative of Mezitli Municipality, is garnering significant interest as it offers retirees the opportunity to spend time in nature and engage in their own organic farming.
Designed specifically for residents of the city who are retired, the Hobby Gardens, located in 11 different areas, contribute to retirees leading a healthier life by allowing them to distance themselves from the stress of daily life. The project prioritizes individuals with disabilities and health conditions such as cancer, providing support to these more vulnerable groups in society. The gardens offer retirees various opportunities for agricultural cultivation. The project not only contributes to healthy eating but also encourages a lifestyle intertwined with nature, creating a social environment for interaction.
Expressing satisfaction with the great interest in the Hobby Gardens project in a short period, Mezitli Mayor Neşet Tarhan emphasized the importance of the benefits provided to retirees for sustainable living. Tarhan stated, 'As Mezitli Municipality, we have set an example for Turkey in many agricultural projects. One of them is filling all green areas in the city with playgrounds and jacaranda groves. We have 72 jacaranda groves created by volunteers. This project has become an example for many municipalities. In addition to this, we have our Hobby Gardens. We enable people to connect with the soil, encouraging them to engage in production. We prioritize retirees and citizens with health problems. We have established 11 Hobby Gardens in Mezitli. Currently, thousands of our citizens are requesting a Hobby Garden. After the pandemic and the earthquake, people want to go out, connect with the soil, and engage in production. They want to produce their own natural vegetables and fruits. Hobby Gardens also create a socialization and friendship environment. Mezitli Municipality set an example for Turkey with the Hobby Gardens. We want everyone, from children to retirees, to connect with the soil and engage in production.