Mario Bautista
Maximina Hernández Reyes transformed her passion for gardening into a successful farm business in Oregon, thanks to the support of local food networks that empower immigrant communities.
Elizabeth Doerr reports for Civil Eats.
In short:
- Hernández Reyes emigrated from Oaxaca in 2001, initially struggled to find support, and later discovered a community garden that reignited her passion for farming.
- With help from the Rockwood Food Systems Collaborative, she scaled her gardening into a one-acre farm, providing fresh produce to her community.
- Her farm now serves as a model for immigrant empowerment and local food sovereignty.
Key quote:
“When organizations have grant money, they can purchase some vegetables from me—that way, they help me, and then I help the community.”
— Maximina Hernández Reyes, farmer.
Why this matters:
Hernández Reyes’ journey highlights the potential of local food systems to foster economic independence and community resilience, especially for immigrants facing food insecurity. These collaborative models offer a more sustainable and inclusive alternative to traditional food aid.
Related: LISTEN: Alexa White on supporting small-scale farmers
