Food waste is starting to become a problem. Companies often prefer to discard food rather than donate it to those in need. Companies have even called the police or fired staff who have taken food marked for the trash. Thankfully, there are mutual aid groups whose mission is to reclaim good food that was thrown out. They cook it and serve it to community members who are unhoused, and/or enjoy communal meals.

Gal Who Garden is a group of committed people and organizations who are working to increase the accessible green space in the Valverde neighborhood. This neighborhood suffers from the heat island effect, contaminated soil, waterways and polluted air. The ultimate goal is to not only increase the accessible green space but to also join the work being done to support a healthier neighborhood climate!

DSST Elevate High School intern teaches her friend how to identify cucumbers and zucchini.