Food Justice Corps

A paid youth employment and leadership program cultivating the next generation of food justice leaders through hands-on urban agriculture, environmental stewardship, and community service.

Location

Syracuse, NY

Project Overview

Mission & Vision

The Food Justice Corps empowers young people to build practical skills while supporting community gardens, food forests, and neighborhood food access efforts across Syracuse.

Made possible through the support of the Central New York Community Foundation and CNY Works.

Our vision is a city where youth are equipped to grow food, care for land, strengthen local food systems, and become leaders in environmental and community stewardship.

Community Impact

FJC connects youth employment with direct community benefit. Corps members help maintain gardens, support food distribution, steward green spaces, and assist with public education around food justice, composting, urban agriculture, and ecological restoration.

Through this work, the program strengthens neighborhood food access while creating meaningful pathways for youth leadership, workforce development, and environmental action.

The Food Justice Corps pilot program is made possible through support from the Central New York Community Foundation and partnership with CNY Works, helping provide paid opportunities for local youth to serve their communities while building valuable skills and experience.

Program Partners

The Food Justice Corps is built through collaboration and shared investment in Syracuse's youth and local food system.

Central New York Community Foundation

Supporting the launch of the Food Justice Corps pilot program through funding that helps create meaningful opportunities for youth leadership, workforce development, and community impact.