S:US Hosts 14th Annual Harvest Celebration Showcasing Urban Farms Work
The S:US community breaking bread at the event with lunch prepared by staff and urban farmers.
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:
September 20, 2024
CONTACT:
Matt Costantini, [email protected]
Event Highlights S:US’ Commitment to Addressing Food Insecurity in New York City
Photos can be found HERE.
The Bronx, NY — Services for the UnderServed (S:US) today hosted its 14th annual Harvest Celebration, showcasing the organization’s innovative Urban Farms initiative and its broader efforts to combat food insecurity in New York City. The event, held at the community garden at Melrose North, one of S:US’ newest supportive and affordable housing, brought together volunteers, staff, and community leaders to celebrate the impact of urban agriculture on community health and sustainability.
The Harvest Celebration featured demonstrations of S:US’ urban farming techniques, including the use of agroforestry and climate resilience principles in their community gardens. Attendees had the opportunity to tour raised beds filled with fresh produce, learn about S:US’ food security efforts and wellness programs, and participate in a farm-to-table lunch prepared by S:US urban farmers and staff.
“Our Harvest Celebration is more than just an annual event, it’s a testament to the power of community-driven solutions to food insecurity,” said Perry Perlmutter, President & CEO, Services for the UnderServed. “Through our community food security programming which includes urban farms and community gardens, we’re not only providing fresh, nutritious food to underserved communities but also fostering a sense of connection and purpose for our residents and the people whom we serve.”
S:US operates 75 growing spaces in Brooklyn, Manhattan, Queens, and the Bronx, which range in size from small community gardens to full urban farms. The growing spaces are tended by S:US volunteers and urban farmers, many of whom are residents of S:US’ supportive housing communities and behavioral health programs. S:US’ urban farming work produces more than 10,000 pounds of fresh produce annually.
“Our Urban Farms serve as living classrooms, where community members can learn about sustainable agriculture, nutrition, and environmental stewardship,” said Michael Hollis, VP of Community Food Security, Services for the UnderServed. “That knowledge empowers individuals to make healthier choices for themselves and their families.”
“Local solutions can have a profound impact on the health and well-being of our communities. Services for the UnderServed is devoted to serving residents of the Bronx at every level, from finding them a safe and comfortable home to providing community access to fresh, local produce,” said State Senator Luis Sepúlveda, who represents the 32nd District. “The S:US team are valuable partners in the effort to improve the lives of Bronxites every day. It is an honor to join so many staff members, volunteers, and residents at this special celebration.”
Products from S:US Urban Farms such as fresh produce boxes, local honey, aromatherapy and essential oils, tote bags, and cutting boards were available for purchase at the event, with proceeds supporting the continuation and expansion of the program.
In 2023, S:US published a white paper on its approach to food insecurity, titled: “Uniting on Food Justice: An Innovative Approach from a Health and Human Service Organization.” The paper examines the complexities of food insecurity in New York City and explains how S:US has successfully integrated food security programs like urban farms and community fridges into its core services. Through internal research, Services for the UnderServed found that food insecurity impacts the communities they serve in greater proportion, especially communities of color, those experiencing behavioral health challenges and people with disabilities.
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About Services for the UnderServed
S:US envisions a city where everyone has a roof over their head, is healthy, productive, and can enjoy the social connections that create a life of purpose. S:US has a staff of 1,800 that provides $273 million in services. Their efforts are supported by various local, state, and federal government entities, foundations, corporations, and individual donors. Most importantly, S:US’ vision allows the organization to deliver the same quality of services to one individual or to thousands.