In a remarkable display of community resilience, a local nonprofit in Denver is spearheading a transformative initiative to tackle food insecurity in some of the city's most underserved neighborhoods. Backed by a significant grant from the U.S. Department of Agriculture's Community Food Projects Competitive Grant program, The GrowHaus is poised to make a lasting impact on the lives of hundreds of families struggling with access to affordable, nutritious food.

Bridging the Gap: Bringing Fresh Produce to Denver's Food Deserts

Addressing a Growing Crisis

The United States is facing a concerning trend in food insecurity, with the latest data from the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) revealing that more than one in 10 people are experiencing concerning levels of food insecurity. In 2023, a staggering 13.5% of families reported experiencing food insecurity, a significant increase from the previous year's 12.8%. This crisis is particularly acute in Denver's Globeville, Elyria, and Swansea neighborhoods, which have historically been among the city's most food-insecure communities.

A Holistic Approach to Food Access

The GrowHaus, a local nonprofit organization, has been at the forefront of the fight against food insecurity in Denver. Initially focused on providing no-cost food access boxes, the organization has since expanded its mission to include a range of wellness and nutrition services. Now, with the support of the USDA's Community Food Projects Competitive Grant, The GrowHaus is poised to take its efforts to the next level by establishing a no-cost, pop-up market for the 400 families it currently serves.

Empowering Community Leaders

The grant will fund a robust three-month training program for the emerging leaders of The GrowHaus' food access team, equipping them with the business acumen and leadership skills necessary to launch the pilot community market. This hands-on experience will not only provide valuable career pathways for these community members but also ensure that the market is tailored to the unique needs and preferences of the families it serves.

Fostering Connections and Knowledge

The pop-up market will serve as a hub for community engagement, allowing residents to access affordable fresh produce and learn about additional resources, such as healthy school meals, SNAP, and community-led classes on topics ranging from healthy habits to the local food system and environmental sustainability. By fostering these connections and imparting knowledge, The GrowHaus aims to empower community members to make informed choices about their diets and their overall health.

A Transformative Journey

The journey of The GrowHaus' food access team is a testament to the power of community-driven initiatives. Maria Elana Soterani, a Venezuelan immigrant who began working with and utilizing the organization's services during the pandemic, has now risen through the ranks to become part of the leadership team that will oversee the pop-up market. This transition not only provides Soterani with valuable real-world experience in areas such as budgeting and food procurement but also serves as a shining example of the transformative impact that such programs can have on individuals and communities.

Inspiring Others to Dream Big

As The GrowHaus prepares to launch its pop-up market, the organization's executive director, Giselle Diaz Campagna, hopes to inspire other organizations to follow in their footsteps. "I want to just inspire other organizations to dream big, but kind of start where you can manage it and doing what you do best," Campagna said. With the USDA's support and the dedication of its community-driven team, The GrowHaus is poised to make a lasting impact on the lives of Denver's most vulnerable residents, setting a powerful example for others to emulate.