Southside Community Land Trust (SCLT)

Mission SCLT provides access to land, education, and resources so Rhode Islanders can grow food sustainably and build community food systems where locally produced, affordable, and healthy food is available to all.

Service Area Founded in 1981, SCLT serves South Providence, Pawtucket, and Central Falls, three of Rhode Island's lowest-income communities, where 49% of families fall below the poverty level and food insecurity affects 41% of households with children.

Key Programs

Community Gardens & Farms: 25 community gardens across 6.42 urban acres serve 325 gardeners who speak 34 languages. 45 farmers operate 17 farm businesses on 74.75 acres of land (36.5 acres in crops, 32 in managed forest), producing 331,000 pounds of produce annually. Major sites include Urban Edge Farm, Good Earth Farm, City Farm, Somerset Hayward Farm, and Galego Community Farm.

Healthy Food Access: The Aggregation Program collected 60,000 pounds of produce in 2024, generating $350,000 in revenue for local farmers. VeggieRx provides free weekly produce bags every two weeks, valued at $30-$35, to families through healthcare partnerships. Free farm stand giveaways at 13 community events served 1,200 people. City Farm operates farmers' markets for 26 weeks annually.

Workforce Development: 60 youth aged 14-24 receive paid employment and training in sustainable agriculture, food justice, and workplace skills. 93% go on to college or the workforce after graduation, 60% return for multiple seasons, and 90% consider careers in agriculture, environmental science, or food policy. The program includes 20 high school students year-round and 5 college interns from 3 universities.

2024-2025 Impact SCLT serves 26,000 people annually. The organization is navigating significant federal funding challenges (40% budget loss) while strengthening local partnerships and maintaining core programs at the 404 Broad Healthy Food Hub.