At Gaining Ground, our mission to grow and donate fresh, organic produce is powered by our farmers, volunteers, and a caring community that believes in good food for all. We partner with 17 organizations that serve as vital connectors, ensuring our food reaches individuals and families experiencing food insecurity across the region.

One of these key partners is House of Hope Inc., based in Lowell. House of Hope runs programs and permanent housing services to end homelessness in the city. Their work is rooted in a deep commitment to helping families transition from homelessness to greater social and economic stability.

As part of their holistic approach, House of Hope provides emergency food, shelter, and clothing for 58 families across several shelter sites. They also offer case management, on-site behavioral and physical health services, family support programs, and employment-readiness initiatives, including internship placements and job coaching, to help families build lasting independence.

Fresh, nutritious produce from Gaining Ground is a core part of this work. “I’ve been working with the farm for seven years, and we make the best use of what they provide,” said Paul Dubuque,  kitchen manager and chef at House of Hope. “I can’t say enough about how wonderful and fresh it is. Every other week, we receive a couple of hundred pounds of produce. This year, the corn was absolutely delicious, and we were excited to get strawberries for the first time.”

The food doesn’t just nourish families—it also supports job training and skills development. “We have three shelters where we feed our residents, and we also run a culinary internship program where we teach job skills,” Paul explained. “All the farm-fresh vegetables become part of that hands-on training—learning to clean, prepare, and cook a wide variety of produce.”

For Julie Lemire, the executive director of House of Hope, the partnership reflects a long-term commitment. “It’s been eight years—going on nine now—since we started partnering with the farm in 2017,” she said. “The produce makes such a difference. It really feels like a partnership where we support each other. At our annual fundraiser, for example, they’ve spoken about the work, and that helps inspire our board and donors.”

Together, Gaining Ground and House of Hope are ensuring families have fresh, nourishing food on their tables and opportunities for growth, stability, and hope.

To learn more about House of Hope, visit www.houseofhopelowell.org.