about us
we're bringing people together to create a just food system and to build healthy, sustainable and equitable communities in worcester, ma and beyond
Food insecurity in our community
Communities in Worcester County experience high rates of poverty and food insecurity, particularly in the city of Worcester, where the poverty rate (20%) is nearly twice that of the state (11%) and county (10%).
Inequities in healthy food access and community food security have been exacerbated and made more visible throughout the COVID-19 pandemic. REC seeks to address the disparities in food access seen in our communities.
33%
of children in the Worcester communities REC serves live in a family unable to meet their basic needs for food
16.6%
of Massachusetts residents are food insecure
33%
Black and Latino/a/x Massachusetts families with children are experiencing food insecurity
Our Core Programs
UGROW
We support a network of over 70 community gardens and 600 gardeners across Worcester
Farmers Markets
We bring fresh, local produce to those who need it most through our Mobile and Standing Community Markets
YouthGROW
We provide economic opportunity and personal / professional development to Worcester youth through urban agriculture
The REC does not, by policy or practice, discriminate against a person or group on the basis of race, color, religion, gender, sexual orientation, national origin, age, disability, gender identity and expression, marital or military status, or based on any individual’s status in any group or class protected by applicable federal, state, or local law.