Local Food Programs
HHI is dedicated to strengthening nonprofits, businesses, community spaces, and individuals who are committed to promoting food security and access.
Our Programs are designed to provide rapid and efficient support to address critical needs and fill gaps in this vital mission. We provide both financial support and food system expertise to others in the community.
Growing Community Through Gardens and Gratitude
Libby Balke and her team at the Greater Dayton Union Co-op Initiative are transforming vacant lots into flourishing gardens where neighbors connect, grow fresh food, and build community. With support from Hall Hunger Initiative, they’ve expanded their reach, provided supplies to local gardeners, and empowered residents to take ownership of their food system—one raised bed at a time.
Community Food Advancement Program
Applications closed until further notice
The Community Food Advancement Program is available for projects that promote food security in the Miami Valley region.
Examples of eligible projects include equipment purchases or rentals, technology investments, infrastructure improvements, personnel support, and one-time unexpected expenses. We’ll work with you to provide administrative support and funding so your project can grow.
To apply, please fill out the online application below.
If you require support in completing the application, please email us at:
Hallhungerinitiative@gmail.com
Support is available on a first come, first serve basis.
Delivering More Than Food: Expanding Access with Every Mile
With a grant from Hall Hunger Initiative, Have A Gay Day was able to purchase a dedicated delivery vehicle—dramatically increasing their ability to get fresh, rescued food to individuals and families in need. Founder Michael Schulson shares how this support helped them go farther, serve more people, and meet neighbors where they are.
Financing Climate-Smart Agriculture
‘Financing Climate Smart Agriculture in Ohio’s Miami Valley’ is a performance-based payment program for growers in southwest Ohio who want to improve their soil quality, a key component to growing healthier, nutritious foods.
Hall Hunger Initiative is excited to partner on this project and is offering a $500 sign-on bonus to the first 10 growers to join in 2024. Alongside 1.2.5 Social Benefit Corporation, Ohio State University, and the Nature Conservancy, Hall Hunger Initiative is working to ensure regional growers can grow better.
For more information, please email: Hello@125benefit.com or Hallhungerinitiative@gmail.com
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The project prioritizes BIPOC led growers, however any grower that meets the criteria below is eligible to apply:
• Growers must be in the following six SW Ohio counties: Miami, Montgomery, Champaign, Clark, Greene, or Clinton
• Growers must be registered with the Farm Service Agency
Reviving a Neighborhood Garden—and a Community Spirit
In the heart of Edgemont, Steve Ross is leading the revival of a once-forgotten community garden. With support from Hall Hunger Initiative, the space is growing more than fresh food—it’s nurturing connection, ownership, and pride among neighbors. What started as a cleanup effort is now a symbol of what's possible with local leadership and timely support.
