September 16, 2025 QUEENS, NY — A groundbreaking partnership between generations is tackling food insecurity head-on in Queens, with a remarkable milestone to show for it. Teens for Food Justice (TFFJ), a non-profit that empowers youth through school-based hydroponic farming, has officially delivered 5,000 pounds of fresh produce to older adult centers across the borough.

The massive haul of healthy, locally-grown food was distributed to various JASA older adult centers, including locations in Rockaway Park, Brookdale Village, and Roy Ruther. The achievement, celebrated in June, underscores a powerful intergenerational initiative that connects local youth with seniors while addressing a critical need for accessible, nutritious food.

The Power of Intergenerational Collaboration

The collaboration is a perfect example of community in action, say representatives from both organizations. Tania Collazo, Senior Director of Nutrition at JASA, an organization that has served older adults since 1968, noted that this type of partnership is "more important than ever" as New York’s senior population continues to grow.

"The 5,000 pounds of fresh, locally-grown produce delivered to our Queens centers directly translates to better nutrition, improved health outcomes, and a powerful sense of community for our clients," Collazo stated.

The initiative not only provides vital food, but also enriches the lives of the students involved. According to TFFJ CEO Meghan Groome, the hydroponic farming program offers teens valuable hands-on experience and helps them gain crucial STEM skills while addressing the real-world challenge of food insecurity.

"Seeing the food they’ve grown on the plates of JASA older adults brings their learning to life in the most impactful way," Groome said. "We are so proud of our students and deeply grateful for our partnership with JASA, which makes this journey from the classroom farm to the community’s table possible."

Council Member Joann Ariola, who recently visited a TFFJ hydroponic farm at Scholars Academy in Rockaway Park, praised the program for its dual impact.

"They’re teaching our young people about where our food comes from, while also providing fresh healthy options to our seniors," Ariola said. "This is really what community is all about — one generation of neighbors helping another — and I could not be more proud to see this project become so successful."

The success of the TFFJ and JASA partnership serves as a model for how innovative programs can simultaneously educate youth and support vulnerable populations, building a stronger, healthier community from the ground up.