HOW WE ADDRESS FOOD INSECURITY

Food Resources Database

We have found the biggest obstacle to food security is the lack of information about local resources. Whether people are seeking or offering help, food banks do not market themselves and out-of-date information is scattered around the internet. People frequently seek help on social media but the responses lack useful contact information or hours of operation. We have curated a reliable list of programs and projects for cities and towns in three counties. We facilitate connections by streamlining the research process for both parties.

We have developed the most comprehensive database
for the Boston Area Listed by County
Regular and Mini Food Pantries,
Community Fridges, Meals, and Gardens
Farmers Markets and Other Food Resources

QR Code

Makes the location, contact information, and hours of operation readily accessible to both those in need and those who want to donate or volunteer.

Reusable Grocery Bag Distribution

In order to spread the word about our food resource database, we provide reusable grocery bags to visitors at farmers markets and other programs. The material of these sturdy and well constructed bags is made from recycled bottles keeping them out of landfills. At 15” W x 13” H x 6”, they are perfect for shoppers to use all year round. 25,000 will be distributed at approximately 50 summer markets this year in Essex, Middlesex and Suffolk Counties.

Free Seed Distribution

We distribute free seeds st farmers markets and food pantries encouraging people to grow their own vegetables or share with others. These packets also includes guidelines SNAP for qualification, a QR code linked to our food resource database, and other helpful information.

Permaculture Projects

A mature apple tree produces between 400 to 800 pounds of fruit per year and lives an average of 100 years. At 600 pounds a year it would create 60,000 pounds over its lifespan with low or no carbon footprint. Once established, a food forest is self-sufficient, regenerative, sustainable and resilient against damage by animals or people. Many perennials have healthy underground systems making then more drought resistant than annual vegetables. Forest gardens depend heavily on a healthy eco-system so less herbicides, pesticides, or non-organic fertilizers applied the better. Working in conjunction with local community projects, we are helping to create public food forests along community rail trails.

Free Plant Distribution

Since 2016 we have grown plants for organizations, churches, and schools. Others are given away for free at food pantries and farmers markets.During the pandemic, we hit record numbers producing around 1000 – 1500 plants each year. Our seed hoarding finally paid off as seeds were hard to find. We were able to fill in the gaps as nurseries had a limited supply of both seeds and plants.

We were able to provide a variety of vegetable plants for sale in order to provide free plants to others. We offered free delivery for the people who were self-isolating or immunocompromised.

Our Work During the Pandemic

Distributed approximately 3000 plants to those in need through food pantries and community organizations.
Mobilized a community of gardeners to offer contactless plant delivery to those who were self-isolating or immunocompromised.
Due to a lack of volunteers and a seed shortage, we provided seeds and plants to urban agriculture programs to continue their work.
Coordinated with school gardens and community groups with the ability to start seedlings to grow for others.