Science Meets Agriculture

Our purpose is to address the social determinants of health as it relates to the Black community we serve through research, organic farming, economic empowerment, intergenerational programming, and re-orienting our collective relationship with food systems. We are a collaboration led by Black doctors, farmers, congressmen, and clergy working towards combating the effects of historical racial injustice on our community in the food and health systems.

Health Policy Institute of Chicago (HPIC)

In 2020 we completed a five-week study where 50 participants switched to a plant-based diet, the first of its kind done in a Black church community. Conducted with HPIC and Dr. Ken Williams of Chicago Rush Medical, we concluded an almost 40% decrease in common inflammatory markers that cause hypertension, high blood pressure, and heart disease - all health issues exacerbated by COVID.

The new study is with University of Illinois Dr. Brian Wright. Our hypothesis is that the nutritional concentration of commonly eaten produce in underserved communities is not where it needs to be. We will be conducting a multi-varied comparative study that compares bioflavinoid and antioxidant content in collards, tomatoes, and beets from grocery stores, corner stores, and from Mother Carr's Farm.

These elements aim to foster a complete picture of a comprehensive approach to holistic community health.