The Ecology Center’s Food Justice Program was launched in 2021 to create an educational and food-producing garden in partnership with the Henry Street Settlement. At the Food Justice Garden, participants learn about food systems and how food access impacts individual, community, and environmental health. Additionally, participants practice skills in growing and cooking food to prepare nutritious and seasonal meals. All food produced in this space is used in education workshops or shared in the local community fridges. 

Youth

Our Youth Food Justice Program serves cohorts of young employees on the Community Response Team (CRT) as well as Summer Youth Employment Program (SYEP) participants. During each season, cohorts explore all things food, including gardening and cooking, health and nutrition, soil science, food systems and systemic barriers to healthy food, and so much more. They also connect with and explore other neighborhood resources to improve food access, including community gardens, mutual aid groups, and community organizations. 

Older Adults

We offer sessions for older adults through the Henry Street Settlement Senior Companion Program. Through gardening and cooking activities, participants spend time outdoors, socialize, get exercise, and continue to learn and explore together. Our older adult participants love sharing stories, houseplant care tips, and recipes with one another. Participants also have the opportunity to harvest produce and herbs to consume at home. 

Our Food Justice Program is funded by the Department of Environmental Conservation Community Impact Grant Program.