Farming Hope

Farming Hope:   A first-time grantee in 2018

Farming Hope creates transitional employment for the homeless living on the streets or in shelters in and around the Bay Area.  Their efforts focus on the homeless who are motivated to make their way back into a more stable life.  Farming Hope provides training and skill development so that these individuals can earn a “ServSafe Culinary” certificate and are qualified to meet job requirements, particularly in the hospitality sector.  Participants earn income while they learn how to both grow food in local community gardens and then master cooking skills that will enable them to eventually work in food establishments, etc.  While going through training, they serve as cooks in Farming Hope pop up dining locations.  These dining locations serve over 2,000 people.

Transitional jobs like this fill a much-needed void in support of the homeless.  While many other services are available, there are few opportunities for honing both the skills and the discipline of good work habits required to maintain a steady job.  Beyond the economic benefits of job training and transitional work, participants also are given a support network offering coaching, social connections, and healthy food access. Of note, Farming Hope operates with a cooperative style, collaborating with other agencies