In the West End of Pittsburgh, there’s a simple white freight container near the Community of Change Center. Inside, a small but powerful hydroponic system grows fresh vegetables all year round. This setup produces about 2,500 pounds of produce annually, using a drip irrigation method that brings nutrient-rich water right to the plants’ roots.
This innovative farm is run by West End P.O.W.E.R. and has successfully expanded its mission with support from the Food Justice Fund (FJF). Their project, called Growing Justice, is aimed at producing more fresh vegetables and providing educational programs about healthy eating. They also train local youth and formerly incarcerated individuals in farming and food distribution skills.
“Healthy food choices are crucial for our communities,” said Terri Minor-Spencer, founder of West End P.O.W.E.R. “We need to connect our conversations about health with what we eat.”
Pittsburgh’s efforts toward food justice have recently gained momentum, with the city distributing $1.5 million in FJF grants to 30 local organizations. These grants are part of a two-round initiative, the first of which allocated $1.1 million for larger projects in 2024. The second focused on small grassroots groups, funding initiatives that can make a direct impact on their communities.
New Sun Rising (NSR) plays a vital role in managing these grants. NSR aims to empower community leaders and helps bridge the gap between those needing support and the funds available. “These grantees understand what their communities need,” said Judi Costanza, director at NSR.
One example of a successful project is by Jana Thompson, who is working to improve food distribution in North Side. Her initiative, Moving Food: The Last Mile, aims to help those without transportation, particularly the elderly and disabled, by providing bags and personal buggies for easier food transport. “I see the struggle firsthand. We want people to carry their groceries home without fear of losing or damaging their food,” she explained.
Organizations seeking FJF grants must be recognized nonprofits or have a fiscal sponsor. Thompson faced challenges managing the funds but was grateful when NSR stepped in to support her efforts. This approach highlights the importance of adaptable support for grassroots projects.
NSR currently helps manage five projects for the FJF, emphasizing community strengths and grassroots solutions. They have been partnering with local initiatives for around 20 years, ensuring accountability in using public funds. The impact of the $1.5 million investment can be tracked on the FJF dashboard created by NSR, allowing community members to stay informed.
Interest in these initiatives continues to grow, with the city preparing to open the next round of FJF grant applications in May 2026. This ongoing commitment highlights the evolving landscape of community-driven food justice efforts in Pittsburgh.
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