1 Grain to 1000 Grains

We are strengthening three inextricably connected pillars of wellness: health and financial literacy; access to a wider variety of fresh seasonal foods at low cost; and bandwidth (time and emotional slack) to improve family eating and financial habits. This is being accomplished through two complementary initiatives: our Healthy Lifestyles Program (HLP) and Comunidad Mercado (CoMer). Every dollar of your contribution goes directly to fund our programs, as all administrative activities are supported by friends of 1000 Grains. 

HLP and CoMer are mutually reinforcing programs. As HLP families learn about the health benefits of fresh produce and whole grains, they are interested in expanded access and variety-- they join CoMer. Symmetrically, the existence of CoMer is increasing interest in HLP as families want to learn more about healthful lifestyles.  

Families participating in HLP experience hands-on learning about healthful eating habits, effective stress management, and responsible financial practices. It is offered at no charge to low-income families, and there is currently a growing waitlist of interested families. 

CoMer brings affordable access to fresh vegetables, whole grains, and legumes to the SYC community. Expanded variety in family diets is being achieved through enhanced access combined with educational programs and hands-on cooking demonstrations. A survey of CoMer participants shows a striking impact: 70% of the participating families have increased the amounts of vegetables they are eating by a substantial amount; and 85% reported that they are eating a much wider variety of vegetables. To positive response of children is especially gratifying. 

Please see our webpage for more details about all of our programs.