From the Executive Director's Desk

Dear Friends and Neighbors,

“Victory Gardens”: During World War II, people across the country planted and learned to grow their own food. They did this out of necessity — to supply their families and community with fresh produce at a time when food was heavily rationed. But the gardens were also considered morale-boosters during uncertain times. Victory Gardens enabled Americans to know that they were contributing to the war effort and also boosted the confidence and pride that came with planting a seed and nurturing it to fruition.

Food Moxie’s farm, nutrition and culinary education programs have a similar effect. Our goal is simple: to inspire and educate people to grow, prepare and eat healthy food. We measure this impact with quantitative data and hard numbers, but what’s more difficult to measure — and equally important to our long-term success — is the effect on participants’ morale and self-esteem.

Our ability to empower people with both skills and confidence ensures that participants not only know what to do and why, but how to do it. When people feel capable and competent, they’re more likely to adopt lifelong changes to improve their long-term health.

Like the Victory Gardeners, those in our programs are also navigating uncertain times, from homelessness and deep poverty to learning basic life skills like how to cook (with limited resources) as they enter adulthood and live independently. They already live on the margins with an ever-thinning safety net for support. We know for certain that they will be deeply affected by federal cuts to vital programs and services, making our programs that much more important, and your help so greatly needed. Can the families and children we serve count on your support at this critical time?

Despite the uncertainty many of us feel right now, there are a few things that I know for sure:

  • The families we serve will increasingly need our help in the coming years.
  • Food Moxie will be a reliable presence for those who need us.
  • Your past support has grown Food Moxie into the organization it is today and improved the lives of thousands of children, youth and families in the process.

With your support, we’ll continue to provide innovative farm and culinary programs that spark joy, inspire confidence and provide connection. 

In gratitude, now more than ever,

Jill C. Fink, Executive Director, Food Moxie