Our Impact

Planting Seeds of Change: Health, Food & Community

At Health in the Hood, planting a seed means more than growing food—it means nurturing change. Our work bridges the gap between food insecurity and community wellness by turning vacant lots into vibrant urban gardens, delivering fresh produce to families in need, and creating spaces where children and adults alike can learn, grow, and thrive. With every garden we build and every connection we foster, we’re transforming the health of our neighborhoods—one harvest at a time.

Explore our Annual Report

How We Made a Difference in 2025

137,000

Pounds of food distributed
2,258

Households Served
3,326

Volunteer Hours Served
63

Food Distribution Events
969

Wellness Participants
119

Zip Codes Reached

Changing The Lives of Real People

With Health in the Hood’s guidance and nutrition education, Ms. Cookie learned how to grow a budget-friendly garden at her home and embrace a healthier lifestyle. This knowledge empowered her to reverse her diabetes, lower her blood pressure, and regain her mobility — all without relying on medication.

⎯Ms. Cookie

Liam used to struggle to eat solid foods and relied almost entirely on PediaSure because chewing and swallowing felt overwhelming. His mom and teachers worried about his health. At a Health in the Hood garden workshop, he tried his very first grape. He was nervous, but when he realized he could chew and swallow it, his smile said everything. Within weeks, he was eating fruits like grapes and watermelon. A few months later, he no longer needed PediaSure. It all started with one grape in the garden.

⎯Liam

Elvita began her journey with Health in the Hood as a recipient at our food distributions. After experiencing the support firsthand, she began volunteering, eager to give back to the community that had supported her family. Today, she is a paid member of our team, serving as Pantry Assistant and helping ensure other families receive food with dignity and care. Her story reflects the full circle of community — from receiving, to volunteering, to leading alongside us.

⎯Elvita