The Johns Hopkins Urban Health Institute recently honored the AgriHood Baltimore Food Box Delivery Program with the 2025 Henrietta Lacks Memorial Award. This initiative, led by the Plantation Park Heights Urban Farm, aims to combat food insecurity in West Baltimore, especially intensified during the COVID-19 pandemic. By delivering fresh, locally sourced produce, the program connects urban agriculture with health equity, fostering community unity along the way.
Launched in response to the urgent need for healthy food options, the program serves families directly, promoting pride and employment in the area. Founder Farmer Chippy highlights its community impact, stating, “This program is key to bringing the community together.”
Dr. Jenny Peña Díaz, an Assistant Professor at the Johns Hopkins School of Medicine, conducted a community-engaged research project to explore how improved access to local produce can mitigate health disparities in Park Heights. Supported by the Bloomberg American Health Initiative’s Food Systems for Health program, Dr. Peña Díaz’s collaboration with PPHUF aimed to enhance the availability of healthy foods during the crisis.
Every week, farmers and volunteers distribute fresh produce boxes in the community. Research Coordinator Sydney Santos gathered inspiring stories from recipients. Many noted improvements in their health, like lowered blood sugar levels, showing that access to good food can have a significant impact on wellbeing. Dr. Peña Díaz emphasized that residents appreciated the availability of fresh food at no cost, which was crucial during a tough time.
Community Research Assistant Bria Morton-Lane found the experience transformative. “It didn’t feel like research; it felt like community,” she shared, noting that trust played a vital role in their interactions. Farmer Tiara Matthews, PPHUF’s Farm Manager, echoed this sentiment. She emphasized the importance of building trust, especially given the complex history between Johns Hopkins and Baltimore’s Black communities.
Today, the AgriHood Baltimore program continues to deliver fresh produce weekly, reinforcing its mission of fostering community trust and wellbeing.
Receiving the Henrietta Lacks Memorial Award, Farmer Chippy spoke about the collaboration between academic institutions and the community. He remarked, “Magic happens when you allow community to lead you,” highlighting that real progress stems from listening and inclusive engagement.
This initiative not only addresses immediate health needs but also lays the groundwork for stronger community ties. As Dr. Lisa Cooper from the Urban Health Institute noted, it’s essential for organizations to give communities a voice in identifying their own needs.
As we celebrate 25 years of efforts toward health equity in Baltimore, AgriHood Baltimore stands as a shining example of how science and community can collaborate effectively. Through every box of produce delivered, the legacy of Henrietta Lacks continues to grow, showing us that real change begins with trust and partnership.
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