CREA Fellowship Program Kicks Off at the San Antonio Food Bank

This week, Terra Advocati, the University of Texas San Antonio, and Alamo Colleges St.Phillips College kicked off our Coalition for Regenerative Ecologies & Agriculture (CREA) Spring Fellowship Program at the San Antonio Food Bank, a cornerstone of support for communities across Southwest Texas. We were warmly welcomed by Mitch Hagney, the Director of Food System Resiliency, who guided us through their expansive facility and shared the incredible impact the Food Bank has on our region.

The San Antonio Food Bank serves an extensive area, reaching over 58,000 square miles and providing essential services to more than 120,000 individuals each week. In 2024 alone, they distributed millions of pounds of food, demonstrating their commitment to combating hunger and food insecurity. Their efforts extend beyond just food distribution, as they also assist families in accessing federal programs like SNAP, further supporting their mission of food sustainability.

During our visit, Mitch took us on a comprehensive tour, highlighting the various facets of the Food Bank's operations. We were particularly impressed by their "Hot Meals" program, which prepares nutritious meals for those in need. The volunteer program also stood out as a vital component, bringing together community members to contribute to the cause.

A highlight of our visit was the "Hunters for the Hungry" area, where the Food Bank processes deer donated by local hunters. This initiative provides a fresh, protein-rich source of food for individuals who might otherwise struggle to access such resources.

Our final stop was the Food Bank Farm at Mission San Juan, a historical site that once served as farmland for the missions. Here, the Food Bank is cultivating fresh produce, reconnecting with the land's agricultural heritage and enhancing local food systems.

The visit to the San Antonio Food Bank was an eye-opening experience for all of us. Their dedication to sustainability, community support, and innovative solutions to address hunger and food insecurity truly embodies the spirit of regenerative ecology and agriculture. We are inspired by their work and look forward to future collaborations that advance our shared goals of sustainability and community well-being. Some of our CREA Fellows will become interns at SAFB, and will have the opportunity to help fight hunger in our community through our spring and fall internship programs.

CREA is generously funded by a United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) Collaborative Hispanic Serving Institutions (HSI) Education Grant.