Empowering Ypsilanti Teens to Combat Food Insecurity: Discover the Transformative Growing Hope Leadership Program

This article is part of Concentrate’s Voices of Youth series, showcasing stories from Washtenaw County youth with help from Concentrate staff. Here, we explore the journey of Jaylah Cotton, a member of the Growing Hope Teen Leadership Program.

Jaylah Cotton grew up with financial struggles. Her family often lived paycheck-to-paycheck and relied on food stamps. When her mother was hospitalized, Jaylah moved in with her grandparents, who always made sure she had food. But when she returned to live with her mother, things changed. "Sometimes the fridge is a little empty," she reflects. Yet, she feels fortunate. "There’s always something to eat if I’m not being picky."

During summer, Jaylah’s family grew a garden. It not only provided fresh food but also sparked her love for gardening. Inspired by this passion, she applied for a job with Growing Hope, a nonprofit in Ypsilanti dedicated to improving food access in the area.

Growing Hope operates an urban farm where community members can cultivate fresh produce. They also run local farmers markets and offer educational programs to promote food independence. The Teen Leadership Program at Growing Hope allows high schoolers to learn and work on the farm. It kicks off with a paid summer session filled with workshops focusing on important topics like food justice.

Jenny Pritchett, a manager in the program, emphasizes the importance of these workshops, stating, “Our teens are empowered to be leaders in the movement towards food sovereignty.” Food sovereignty means having a reliable source of diverse foods and the knowledge to prepare them. Unfortunately, many in Ypsilanti lack this access. As of 2022, about 12.5% of Washtenaw County residents are food insecure, according to Feeding America.

“Food insecurity is a huge issue, especially in Ypsilanti,” Pritchett explains. Many residents typically shop for food at a nearby liquor store, which often lacks fresh produce. Having Growing Hope nearby offers a healthier choice.

Food insecurity particularly affects youth. In Washtenaw County, 12.3% of children face food insecurity, which can lead to long-term adverse effects on their health and education. Nick Corvera-Garay, another teen participant, points out the social stigma attached. “Youth often get bullied for not having access to food,” he says. Providing a safe space for discussions is crucial.

The Growing Hope program not only addresses community needs but also transforms participants’ lives. Both Jaylah and Nick express gratitude for the growth they’ve experienced. Jaylah, aspiring to be a teacher, feels more confident and ready to lead. “I feel more comfortable stepping into a leadership position,” she shares.

Throughout the year, members learn about agriculture and nutrition. They cook meals with the produce they grow and host workshops to teach the community about healthy eating. One exciting event is a ramen cooking workshop, where participants will also learn to identify edible weeds on the farm.

Nick, a self-proclaimed forager, emphasizes how easy it can be to eat healthily. "It really is as simple as sautéing a few vegetables or going outside to pick something fresh," he says.

Growing Hope’s youth program is unique in Michigan. “Our teens are vital to our organization,” Pritchett states. Educating and empowering young people today can change not only their lives but also the future of the food system.

"Food is at the foundation of everyone’s being," she adds. "We all need to eat."

This insightful initiative ultimately fosters a sense of community while tackling food insecurity and cultivating the leaders of tomorrow. By engaging youth in these meaningful conversations and experiences, Growing Hope is planting seeds for a healthier, more connected future.

For more information on food insecurity and the resources available, visit Feeding America.

Source link

Growing Hope, Teen Leadership Program, food sovereignty, food access, farming, Ypsi, Ypsilanti