According to Giving Tree Acres Community Farm Founder and Executive Director Kristen Sebastian,
“Giving Tree Acres is on a mission to transform food pantries in underserved communities into havens of health and nourishment.
“We’re excited to participate in Communities Foundation of Texas’ North Texas Giving Day for the first time, and we’re calling on our community to help raise funds to expand farm production. With your support, we can provide more sustainably grown, nutritionally dense, and locally sourced produce and proteins to food banks serving South Dallas.
“Texas has the highest hunger rate in the U.S., with 16.4% of Texans experiencing food insecurity. This means that 1 in 6 Texans face hunger, up from 13.7% in 2021. The rate is higher for children, with 1 in 4 Texas children facing hunger, up from 18% in 2021 (Source: Feeding America). But at Giving Tree Acres, we understand that this isn’t just a matter of providing enough food—it’s about providing the right food.
“Food insecurity is linked to our healthcare crisis. Adults facing food insecurity are more likely to suffer from chronic health conditions and a lower life expectancy. Poor diets lead to obesity, high blood pressure, Type 2 diabetes, dementia and an increased risk of early death. Moreover, unhealthy levels of added sugar and sodium, along with harmful additives, contribute to inflammation, anxiety and depression. The CDC estimates that food insecurity adds $2 billion annually to healthcare costs in Texas.
“Giving Tree Acres believes in the power of food as medicine. We aim to flip the ratio of foods in food pantries—from mainly processed to fresh foods. This transformation isn’t just about feeding people; it’s about nourishing them, improving health, and enhancing quality of life. Our farm produces regeneratively grown fruits and vegetables, pasture-raised eggs, and grass-fed and pasture-raised proteins. By increasing farm output, we can ensure more families access nutrient-dense foods.
“Our farm is committed to regenerative agriculture. These farming practices focus on restoring soil health, enhancing biodiversity, and increasing carbon capture, which improves the nutritional quality of our produce and protects our environment. Regenerative agriculture creates a sustainable food system that benefits the planet and the people who rely on it.
“This North Texas Giving Day, your support can make a tangible difference. By contributing to Giving Tree Acres, you’re investing in a healthier future for our community. Funds raised will increase our farm production capacity, allowing us to provide a consistent supply of nutritious foods to South Dallas food banks. We prioritize donating farm product to direct service organizations that share our vision and have an established reputation in their communities. Our partners offer educational programs on nutrition and healthy cooking and are committed to promoting fresh foods over processed alternatives. Together, we can create healthier, more resilient communities.
“Supporting Giving Tree Acres on North Texas Giving Day isn’t just about fighting food insecurity—it’s about addressing the healthcare crisis at its root. It’s about using food as medicine to build a healthier community. Join us in this crucial mission. Together, we can make a lasting impact. Donate today and help us grow a healthier North Texas.”
* Photo credit: Robert Underwood
In 15 years, Communities Foundation of Texas’ North Texas Giving Day has pumped more than $566 million into the North Texas community. In 2023, more than $63.9 million was raised through 97,000 donors benefiting 3,249 area nonprofits.
On Thursday, September 19, support Giving Tree Acres by clicking here and spreading the word. #NorthTexasGivingDay2024