SACRAMENTO — Local youth empowerment and food justice organization Food, What?! has been honored as the California Nonprofit of the Year.
Food, What?! staff joined Senator Bill Monning in June to celebrate this achievement at the annual California Nonprofits Day Celebration in Sacramento, which recognized exceptional nonprofits statewide.
“Food, What?! has done a tremendous job in empowering the youth of Santa Cruz County… using sustainable agriculture,” Monning said. “The organization provides low-income youth with the opportunity to learn about local food systems, diet and nutrition, along with critical life skills. Thank you to everyone at Food, What?! for your dedication to helping teens find their voice and long-lasting confidence.”
Based in Watsonville and Santa Cruz, Food, What?! youth use organic farming, nourishing food and community as vehicles to grow on their own terms. Along with staff and crew, they grow, cook, eat and distribute fresh, healthy food while also addressing local food justice issues.
Through its programs, Food, What?! engages youth in relationships with land, food and each other in ways that are “grounded in love and rooted in justice.” The organization aims to provide meaningful spaces where youth can cultivate empowerment, liberation and well-being.
“We honor youth for who they are,” Founder and Executive Director Doron Comerchero said. “We listen to them. We provide them with meaningful work. We co-create safe and brave space. And we dig deep, deep into the well that’s within each of us to love. To love ourselves, and to love each other.”
Food, What?! staff and participants extended its thanks to everyone who has walked alongside the organization toward this milestone.
For information, visit foodwhat.org.
