New Haven Nature & Health Initiative

The COVID-19 pandemic has made the effect of nature on people’s mental and physical health increasingly clear: time in nature makes us healthier. 

The New Haven Nature & Health Initiative is a collection of individuals from the New Haven community, health care system, local organizations, and Yale who believe in the power of nature in affecting the health of individuals and communities.

We focus on sharing knowledge to engage New Haven residents to improve their health through experiences in nature. This includes:

  • Supporting health care workers in prescribing nature to their patients
  • Creating and promoting programming and tools
  • Sharing data on the measured benefits of nature and health initiatives within the community

Our Vision

A healthier and greener New Haven where all neighborhoods and residents have safe and equitable access to greenspaces and nature-based programming that is inclusive and welcoming – celebrating positive health, positive self-image, knowledge, culture, leadership, and stewardship at all ages.

Our Mission

We develop and promote programming and research that expands community and clinical engagement in healing, nature-based activities.

Our Partners

Working Group members are involved with initiatives at the Fair Haven Community Health Care, Yale New Haven Health, Park Rx America, Gather New Haven, Trust for Public Land, Urban Resources Initiative, New Haven Department of Parks, Recreation and Trees, Yale Child Study Center, Yale School of the Environment, Being Well at Yale, Yale Office of Sustainability, and the Campus Nature Rx Network.

In the News

Medical Providers are taking Nature Therapy Seriously

Getting a Nature Fix: Author Talk March 18, 2021 (recording available)

Prioritizing Nature

Resources

Community groups to help you get outside

Professional organizations

Get Involved

Interested in joining this effort? Have a resource to share?

Contact us at naturehealthnewhaven@gmail.com