Based on the research that I did previously, 16% of children (ages 5-17) in East Harlem show signs of emotional disturbance and adolescents (ages 12-17) account for 60% of mental health sufferers though they make up only 35% of East Harlem’s population.

My proposal is based on the research that I did previously related to children’s mental health issues which I think is very crucial to bring into focus around that area.  So for my food pharmacy, I want to focus more on children and adolescents’ mental health issues. Besides all the necessary elements, I tend to provide an educational space where parents could gather and be educated about the importance of a balanced diet and healthy eating habits which are closely linked to children’s mental health but sometimes be neglected. Also, inspired by the colorful sea shells, the interior would be applied mostly pink and green color with organic shapes. Through the usage of colors, shapes and organized interior arrangements, the food pharmacy aims to offer people a welcoming environment to stay and guide people to a healthier living lifestyle. 

Goals:

1. Provide consulting rooms for people to consult their problems and offer solutions individually.

2. Offer an educational space where parents could gather and be educated about the importance of a balanced diet and healthy eating habits which are closely linked to children’s mental health development.

3. Curved edges to the furniture and infection-safe materials offer a design that is fully compliant to a modern mental health setting.

4. Welcoming place for all people to easily access to grab and go for the prepared meal that reached daily nutrition goals. (Some prep meals are specially matched for children, and some are specially matched for adults.)