With the government shutdown now resolved, families in Bushwick and Bedford-Stuyvesant are still recovering from weeks of disruption to essential programs like SNAP, WIC, and Head Start. The lingering impacts of food insecurity, childcare gaps, and rising energy bills as winter sets in make continued support and investment in community resources more critical than ever.

At Collective Focus, we’re seeing the effects firsthand. More families are showing up hungry, volunteers are stretched thin, community fridges emptied faster than we can restock.

We need your help.

Over the past four years, CF's dedicated volunteers have worked hard to show their commitment to our community, always striving to make our neighborhood better. With your support, we've reached meaningful milestones that showcase the amazing impact of our work.

As of October 2025,

Over $2 million dollars in free clothing and rescued food has been redistributed to neighbors
Over 537,000 pounds of free food and clothing redistributed
Serving 154,000 families throughout Brooklyn
Four weekly food rescues and two weekly food distros throughout the year
Numerous free community events and workshops

HOW WE STARTED

Collective Focus began over four years ago on the street corners of Bedford-Stuyvesant and Bushwick, Brooklyn, when a group of friends came together to address food waste and food insecurity during the Covid-19 pandemic. What started as rescuing and redistributing surplus food to neighbors in need has grown into a thriving community hub.

Located now at the corner of Broadway and Hart Street in Brooklyn, Collective Focus Resource Hub serves as a grassroots space for mutual aid, creativity, and collaboration. Dozens of volunteers laid the groundwork for a sustainable model of community care and today many of the former team members act as mentors and advisors to the next generation of team coordinators who continue to keep Collective Focus running strong.

WHO WE ARE AND WHAT WE DO

Christine & Bug – Food Justice

The Food Justice Program is the backbone of Collective Focus, addressing food insecurity through direct community action. With the help of neighbors and volunteers, this team maintains and stocks four 24-hour community refrigerators, conducts four weekly food rescues, and coordinates two weekly distributions serving 154,000 people. As of October 2025, the Food Justice team has redistributed over 500,000 lbs. food, diverting it from landfills and saving an estimated $863,000 in food waste. This program not only nourishes families but also strengthens local networks of care and sustainability.

Ana V, Chico, Nelson, Manuela, Rosa & Nayeli - Operations

Our Operations Team, guided by four neighborhood elders, weaves intergenerational knowledge sharing into the daily rhythm of Collective Focus. Through their mentorship, alongside a dedicated team coordinator bridging the technology gap along with countless dedicated volunteers they maintain the daily integrity of the space along with the Free Clothing Program, this program operates five days a week ensuring that essential resources remain accessible to all. Since Collective Focus began over four years ago, the clothing program has circulated 90,000 lbs. of clothing back into the community reducing waste and supporting dignity for all neighbors.

Yoly, Yailenne & Nitaawe - Arts and Culture, Events & Workshops

Access to food and clothing is essential, but Collective Focus understands that a thriving community also depends on connection, creativity and shared learning. In 2025, the Arts and Culture Team hosted a variety of events It Takes a Village, Maternity Distro, community potlucks and workshops, bringing neighbors together through storytelling, food and cultural exchange. These gatherings foster intergenerational relationships and deepen understanding across diverse communities. Through this work, Collective Focus has become a vital bridge linking traditions, identities, and creative practices that strengthen community bonds.

Johann & Mai - Media

The Collective Focus Media Team captures the everyday magic of mutual aid, from fridge restocks cultural events, documenting the power of solidarity in action. Their work includes producing the Collective Focus’ Collective Language Podcast where volunteers, community members, and partner organizations share their stories. The team also manages the Collective Focus Community Studio, a creative hub for learning, expression and connection. The studio offers music lessons, creative workshops and a summer youth music production course that empowers the next generation of artists and storytellers. Beyond the lens, this team builds bridges through dialogue, art and shared experiences.

Georgina, Jay, Lin, Andie, Shannon, Yoly and Sarah - Finance Team

Behind the scenes, the Development & Finance Team ensures that Collective Focus remains financially healthy and sustainable. This team is responsible for securing funding, managing budgets and tracking every dollar to ensure it directly advances the collective’s mission. Their ongoing work enables all programs to meet the growing needs of the community.

Below is the Finance Team’s budget summary to sustain operations through 2026.

Your donation today helps us keep our fridges stocked with fresh produce and pantry staples. Every dollar helps us fill the gaps left by federal inaction. Every share brings more hands to the work. Every voice raised helps us demand better.

Together, we hold each other up.

The Time is Now

The Team at Collective Focus

Collective Focus 2025-2026 Winter Fundraiser