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Intros

Ashley is the Community Farmers Market Program Coordinator and has a diverse background in sustainable agriculture and a deep commitment to building food security in Worcester and fostering an inclusive farming community across Massachusetts. Hailing from central Massachusetts, Ashley's journey took her to Vermont, where she immersed herself in sustainable landscape horticulture after completing her education. Her dedication to exploring different food systems led her to a permaculture farm in Nicaragua, where she experimented with tropical agriculture. Eventually, Ashley returned to Worcester County, where she put down roots and is currently raising her family.In her role as the Community Farmers Market Program Coordinator, Ashley is passionate about creating a more inclusive farming community and enhancing food security in Worcester. Her love for sustainable agriculture is evident in her favorite cultivation—garlic.

Mari Gonzalez has a dedication to fighting food insecurity as a continuation of her family legacy. Growing up in a household grappling with food insecurity, Mari witnessed her parents, Maria and Osiris Reyes, tirelessly finding resources to feed a family of six. In 1991, Maria and Osiris founded the El Buen Samaritano Food Program in Worcester, setting the foundation for their commitment to addressing hunger. Inspired by her parents' efforts, Mari and her family sought assistance through organizations like Friendly House, recognizing the critical support they provide. Today, Mari Gonzalez serves as the Executive Director at El Buen Samaritano, carrying forward the mission her parents began. Her journey is a testament to the transformative impact of community engagement in the fight against food insecurity.

Catalina López-Ospina’s journey started in Colombia. She came to continue her higher education in Boston which also reshaped her view of the American dream. Having witnessed the struggles of individuals and families facing food insecurity, Catalina, now the Vice President of Engagement for Project Bread, leads efforts to address this critical issue. Her personal experience, putting dreams on hold to survive and seeing family members rely on assistance programs, ignited her passion for change. Catalina actively engages with communities, shaping resources and policies at Project Bread to empower individuals. As we approach the Walk for Hunger, let's welcome Catalina as she shares her insights on community empowerment and creating a hunger-free future.

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Questions

Please share a brief description of your work in food justice, and how do you think it contributes to health equity among Latino communities but also the community in general.
What are the structural issues you can identify affecting the communities you serve from your respective positions?
How often do you get to interact with the available data?

Do you have access to data? / Do you use data to design your programs? / Do you cooperate with groups that work with data (academic, government, etc.) / How can research/academic groups like the knowledge hub help in tangible ways?

What are the conditions (policies, resources, engagement, etc.) that would elevate your work to continue to contribute to improvements in health equity?