Food Justice at Hope Collaborative

What is HOPE’s Food Justice Program?
HOPE's Food Justice program stands at the forefront of empowering communities By collaborating closely with the Alameda County Public Health Department, we're enhancing the landscape of healthy retail outlets to ensure every part of Oakland offers wholesome choices. Our programs have been instrumental in converting surplus food from farmers' markets, grocery stores, and food services into nourishing meals for our neighbors. Furthermore, working with corner stores, small business owners, resident leaders, and other key stakeholders to increase the availability of nutritious, affordable food and improve the built environment, neighborhood safety, and community economic development in Oakland. 
Moreover, our advocacy efforts for food waste policies like SB 1383 are bridging grassroots initiatives with broader systemic changes, amplifying our impact across the region.

What is the political impact? 
HOPE has advocated and aligns highly with the efforts of The California Senate Bill 1383 (SB 1383) which is a statewide initiative  to reduce the emissions of climate pollutants. This “Organics Recycling” bill was signed in September 2016 with an overarching aim of reducing greenhouse gas emissions by addressing the organic waste problem in California, thereby contributing to the state's broader climate goals.
2 of the Key points of SB 1383 that HOPE resonates with include:
Organic Waste Diversion: which mandates the 75% reduction in organic waste disposal & Edible Food Recovery: which requires 20% of currently disposed edible food be recovered for human consumption. 


How does poor nutrition affect the community, and how do we help?
Food insecurity has direct correlations to the health conditions of Oakland residents; impoverished communities are affected the most by this issue. 
In response to this issue, HOPE builds youth and adult leader capacity to engage in public processes and advocate for investments in historically disinvested areas. Recognizing food insecurity as a key health determinant, HOPE equips leaders to advocate for equitable food systems. In response to increased food insecurity during the pandemic, we've launched our Community Food Distribution project to deliver tangible solutions.

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Did you know May is CalFresh Awareness month?
HOPE Collaborative partners with Alameda County Nutrition Services. This department is expanding CalFresh access to Oakland farmers' markets, ensuring fresh, nutritious, and culturally appropriate food for all residents. Let's make a difference together!
The CalFresh program provides numerous benefits to individuals and communities: food security, Economic stimulus, poverty alleviation, educational opportunities, and improved health outcomes; with access to nutritious food through CalFresh individuals can have reduced rates of diet-related illnesses such as obesity, diabetes, and heart disease. Overall, the CalFresh program plays a vital role in promoting the holistic improvement of the community. Together, with your unwavering support, we're crafting a future where every resident of Oakland enjoys access to fresh, nutritious, and culturally appropriate food. Let's continue this journey of empowerment and transformation, one meal at a time.