Fortifying our Roots for a Regenerative Future is a fundraising campaign born from the recognition that we’re facing a critical need as decisions from the new Administration have severely aggravated our funding gap, including the termination of a vital federal grant we held with community partners. This loss jeopardizes our existing federal contract and delays EPA-fund grant applications that we applied to, in addition to threatening the very fabric of support we provide to our community. This initiative aims to raise the critical funds needed to sustain our programs, support our dedicated staff, and continue offering vital resources to our communities in 2025. This call to community action supports our commitment to collective organizing, solidarity, and the principles of a regenerative economy.

FSNYC is more than just a training center; we’re a vibrant community hub where individuals come together to learn, grow, and cultivate a better future. For over a decade, our programs have empowered individuals with the knowledge and skills needed to engage in sustainable agriculture, promote food justice, and foster community resilience. But now, we find ourselves at a crossroads, facing uncertainty that could hinder our ability to continue this important work. Without your support, we risk losing the very essence of what makes FSNYC a catalyst for QT-BIPOC land stewards and food justice advocates to do the necessary work of changing our food system. We invite you to stand with us in solidarity and commitment to building a strong regenerative future for our communities to flourish. Together, we are a catalyst for a future where everyone has access to the knowledge and resources our communities need to thrive.

Our Goals:

Our campaign aims to raise $250,000 to protect our programs. Your contributions will directly impact our ability to:

Provide scholarships for community members to access our educational programs.
Launch newly revisioned courses facilitated by community wisdom keepers.
Maintain and improve our urban farm and rural farmer partnerships.
Ensure a safe and productive learning environment for emerging BIPOC and QT land stewards.
Support the work of QT and BIPOC farmers, land stewards, chefs and food justice advocates.
Ensure a living wage for QT and BIPOC farmer-facilitators (many of which are FSNYC alumni).

Here’s How You Can Help:

One time major contribution - We’re aware many of our communities are in similar financial predicaments, however, we are also aware that a few community members have the ability to make a one-time gift of $20,000 or $10,000 or $5,000 without impacting their budget or livelihood. We invite you to be a catalyst for regenerative philanthropy and economies.
Recurring contributions - Our sustainability is dependent on a steady inflow of resources from diverse revenue streams. Monthly contributions are a great way to give on a budget and over a consistent period of time. Become a monthly supporter ($5-$500) and invest in long-term solutions for education and sustainable food systems.
Share with your networks - Share our campaign with your friends, family, and networks. The more people who know about FSNYC and our work, the greater our impact can be.

Your support is not just a contribution, it’s an investment in the future of our community, our environment, and our collective well-being. Thank you for being a champion of what FSNYC stands for!

With gratitude and hope,

Fabina Itana Benites, on behalf of FSNYC Staff, Board, and the Alumni Network Committee