Who We Are

Growing from the Heart is a grassroots initiative increasing access to fresh, local, and nourishing food grown by and for our friends and neighbors throughout the Western UP region. As individuals, groups, and organizations taking part in this community-led effort, we share a collective mission and vision. Our efforts are facilitated by the Western UP Food Systems Collaborative, a regional initiative supporting strengthened food systems in our region. We invite community members and organizations to join in this work of reconnection to our food, one another, and our home. As we grow and redistribute food, we work together toward food sovereignty throughout our region.

Our Mission

We are a grassroots effort of individuals and groups growing, harvesting, sharing, transporting, eating, and celebrating food with the shared goal of increasing access to healthy, fresh, and nourishing food for all. Food is a right; together, we commit to actively creating new processes, networks, and infrastructure so that all members of our community can access and enjoy the abundance of foods offered by the lands and waters of the Western UP. This collaborative care reconnects us today and helps us work toward stronger communities tomorrow. If you are participating in any step, you are a part of this important and needed work towards food sovereignty for all.

Our Vision

We envision a community in which all members’ food needs are met through access to healthy, fresh, nourishing food grown and shared through our collective creativity, knowledge, and efforts. These shared efforts of growing, sharing, and celebrating food, as acts of decolonization and liberation, honor the treaty of 1842 and support food sovereignty across the Western UP region.


Resources

We encourage you to use our email list to create events, host meals meals, and foster new relationships as we redistribute food in our communities.