Executive Summary Overview

In 2023 & 2024, with multiyear funding from MA Community Health and Healthy Aging Funds,  the Springfield Food Policy Council and Square One continued efforts they had begun during the Covid 19 pandemic to make healthy, locally grown food attainable for families across Springfield. From the fresh produce grown by World Farmers and distributed for free at Square One, Gardening the Community, and Brightwood Health Center to the personal touch of community leaders training residents on how to use programs like SNAP and HIP, every effort was driven by a genuine desire to uplift our neighbors.

At its core, this work is about connection. Imagine a child at Square One savoring a piece of fresh fruit, or community members gathering to learn, share ideas, and advocate for policies that make healthy food accessible to everyone. Leaders like Dawn DiStefano, Jemisa Douglas and Liz O'Gilvie didn’t just manage programs, they sparked conversations and built relationships that will continue to shape our food system for years to come.

Beyond distributing high quality fresh vegetables and protein, Springfield EATS has been a champion for change, pushing for policy reforms at the state level (Healthy Incentive Program funding & beginning farmer land access), the federal level (advocating to the FED about the cliff effect and young families, attending the Whitehouse Conference on Hunger, advocating for the Transformational Farm Bill), and empowering immigrant and refugee farmers to enhance their businesses by purchasing their cultural produce to distribute to marginalized families in Springfield. These efforts, coupled with creative programs and learning opportunities, have not only nourished families and children but also strengthened the social fabric of Springfield.

In short, this evaluation tells a story of hope, resilience, and the power of coming together, reminding us that when communities unite, even the simplest acts, like sharing a meal, can transform lives.