Fresh Approach

Education programs include the veggierx food as medicine workshops and the east palo alto community garden program. The veggierx program began in 2011, reaching nearly 12,000 bay area residents and distributing over $500,000 in "prescription" vouchers for participants to spend on fruits and vegetables at farmers' markets. In 2024, fresh approach offered veggierx workshops and vouchers in four counties (alameda, contra costa, san mateo, and santa clara) in partnership with healthcare providers and community-based organizations. In the east palo alto community, the east palo alto community garden is a key resource offering urban agriculture initiatives.

Fresh approach is committed to strengthening community engagement, volunteering, and leadership opportunities. Through the community ambassador project, 28 residents were enrolled in 2024 to support programs by helping with customer service at the farmers' markets, helping to manage the compost hub, and facilitating group discussions and workshops.