Seeds of Strength: Youth Food & Health Afterschool Program

Access to Fresh is committed to building healthier, more resilient communities by connecting families with local food and equipping them with the skills to thrive. Our Seeds of Strength: Youth Food & Health Afterschool Program is designed to do just that—empowering 150 underserved students in Pasco County with the knowledge, habits, and resources to lead healthier lives.

For 12 weeks, students ages 6–14 will explore a hands-on curriculum that blends nutrition education, physical activity, and wellness practices. In partnership with The Peace Workout, the program tackles childhood obesity and health disparities head-on by exploring themes rooted in the American College of Lifestyle Medicine’s six pillars of health—whole-food nutrition, physical activity, restorative sleep, stress management, healthy relationships, and avoiding risky substances.

Students will not just learn about health—they’ll practice it. From planting vegetables in school gardens to learning CPR from the American Heart Association, each lesson builds skills for real-life impact. To reinforce healthy eating at home, every child will take home a weekly produce bundle—14 servings of fresh, seasonal food sourced first from local regenerative farmers. Families gain access to nutritious food while supporting the regional food economy.

The program also uses measurable tools: BMI screenings, knowledge assessments, and Healthy Habits Trackers keep students motivated while showing real progress. Incentives recognize their commitment and help create momentum for lasting change.

By investing in Seeds of Strength, you’re fueling more than an afterschool program—you’re helping create:

Healthier kids who gain the confidence and skills to make lifelong healthy choices.
Stronger families with practical tools and consistent access to nutritious, affordable food.
Thriving local farms that benefit from consistent, community-driven market opportunities.
A scalable model that connects food access to measurable health outcomes, laying the foundation for Food is Medicine programs across communities.

With your support, we can transform food access into real health impact—helping children grow stronger, families feel supported, and communities become more resilient.

Access to Fresh: Seeds of Strength

Youth Food & Health Afterschool Program

Team Members