Promoting Home Yard Utilization to Strengthen Food Security in Bira Lhok Village, Montasik Subdistrict, Aceh Besar Regency

Abstract

Home gardens play a vital role in supporting household food security by transforming unused yard spaces into productive areas for cultivating vegetables, fruits, spices, and medicinal plants. In Bira Lhok Village, Montasik Subdistrict, Aceh Besar Regency, awareness of the importance of home garden utilization has been limited, prompting the implementation of a community service program aimed at empowering housewives through training and socialization. The primary objective of this initiative was to provide comprehensive knowledge and practical skills that enable participants to manage home gardens effectively while enhancing household welfare. The program was conducted from August 23 to 26, 2025, involving 30 housewives and several village officials. Activities included preparation (material development and coordination), implementation (lectures, demonstrations, and interactive discussions), and evaluation (feedback and Q&A). Participants learned about soil preparation, planting techniques, integrated land use, and organic waste recycling. Visual documentation demonstrated their active engagement, collaborative learning, and application of sustainable agricultural practices. The results indicated that participants successfully cultivated mustard greens and water spinach, turning previously underutilized yards into productive plots. This contributed not only to household nutrition but also to potential income generation from surplus produce. The program’s novelty lies in its integrated and participatory approach, combining knowledge transfer, skill development, and practical application, while positioning housewives as central agents of change in household food management. In conclusion, the program effectively raised awareness, improved skills, and fostered sustainable practices in home garden utilization. It is expected that the initiative will be continued and replicated in other rural areas to strengthen local food systems and community resilience.