[Top Photo: Tara Smith Swibel, Amanda J., Queens Borough President Donovan Richards, Araya A., and Katherine Soll. Picture by BFA]
By: Pamela Honey
This year’s TFFJ Gala, featuring the theme Growing Together, was a powerful celebration of Teens for Food Justice’s (TFFJ) mission to fight food insecurity and empower youth through hydroponic farming. Held on October 22nd, 2024 at the Hotel Edison Rooftop, the event was filled with purpose and passion. Christopher J. Hanke served as the charismatic emcee, host, and auctioneer, while Jasmine Amy Rogers, star of Boop! The Betty Boop Musical delivered a captivating performance that added a special touch to an evening devoted to the transformative power of food justice.
TFFJ was honored to recognize Queens Borough President Donovan Richards for his unwavering support of the shared mission to end food insecurity and uplift youth through hydroponic farming. In his heartfelt speech, he addressed the deep-rooted challenges of food insecurity and health disparities in underserved neighborhoods. He also reaffirmed his vision of establishing hydroponic farms in every school in Queens, reflecting TFFJ’s mission that access to fresh, healthy food is not only essential for nourishment but is also a key driver of equity in education and health.
The gala also celebrated educators Ms. Erika Yonks and Ms. Christine Fryer for their remarkable dedication to food justice and education. TFFJ highlighted the outstanding work of the Food Policy Interns from the Martin Luther King Jr. Educational Campus, who, together with their teachers and TFFJ CEO Katherine Soll, participated in a meaningful panel discussion. They shared personal stories of how TFFJ’s programming has transformed their schools and communities, and how they are now advocating for the Healthy Kids’ Meal Bill, a vital legislative effort to promote healthier food options for children. It was a powerful moment, underscoring the interns’ commitment to creating systemic change for food justice.
Additionally, TFFJ honored students from The Scholar’s Academy, who created a touching virtual tour of their school’s farm. Through this project, they not only showcased their dedication to combating food insecurity but also demonstrated their journey in understanding sustainable farming systems and the value of hands-on agricultural education.
The evening was further elevated by a delightful menu curated by Mina Newman, Executive Chef of Sen Sakana and the Edison Ballroom. Guests received gift bags featuring items generously donated by Juice Press, By the Way Bakery, The Purist, Ghetto Gastro, Hampton Coffee Company, Sio Beauty, DV Wines, Perricone Hydrogen Water, as well as TFFJ-grown produce and student-created recipes.
The gala raised an impressive $806,000 and counting to support TFFJ’s mission of ending food insecurity through youth-led hydroponic farming. The event was not only a fundraising success but also a powerful testament to the impact that young people are making to transform communities and ensure fresh, healthy food for all.
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Pamela Honey is the Communications & Content Coordinator at Teens For Food Justice.
