S1, E78: The Food Justice Coalition - Jeanette Padilla
Food insecurity is a pervasive issue across America, affecting millions of individuals despite our country's abundance of resources. The Food Justice Coalition, founded by Jeanette Padilla in 2020, represents a powerful grassroots response to this critical problem—providing nutrient-dense, prepared meals to those experiencing food insecurity while addressing the often-overlooked aspects of time poverty and cooking skill gaps that compound the challenge.
What began as a simple act of kindness—organizing a Christmas dinner for people experiencing homelessness—has evolved into a thriving nonprofit that's transforming Salt Lake City's approach to food accessibility. The organization's plant-based meals are crafted with sustainability, environmental impact, and health benefits in mind, though as Padilla notes, most recipients simply experience them as "good food that happens to be plant-based."
The journey toward founding Food Justice Coalition reflects Padilla's personal experiences with poverty. Born in Los Angeles to Mexican parents and spending her early childhood in Mexico, she vividly recalls her family's struggle after returning to the US with just $500 and two suitcases. Living in an empty building with concrete floors, sleeping on a shared sleeping bag, and eventually subsisting on crackers when they could no longer afford eggs, these formative experiences instilled a profound empathy for others facing similar hardships.
When the pandemic brought Padilla to Utah in 2020, the sight of unsheltered people requesting food and water during protests stirred those childhood memories. "How is it that it's been 25 years and we live in the richest country in the world, the most powerful country in the world, and there are still so many people experiencing homelessness?" she wondered. This question became the catalyst for action.
What makes Food Justice Coalition distinctive is its approach to dignity. Their inaugural Christmas dinner wasn't just about providing food—it included proper tables with linens, beautiful plateware, decorations, and handwritten Christmas notes. "I just wanted people to feel seen and feel that they mattered," Padilla explains. This ethos of respect and recognition continues to guide their work today.
Looking ahead, Food Justice Coalition is partnering with Give Group to establish a cafe where healthy meals will be available for just $3-4—significantly more affordable than comparable options elsewhere. This innovative approach aims to address systemic issues in our food system while making nutritious eating accessible to everyone.
The organization's success story also highlights the power of authenticity in community building. Padilla describes how leading with genuine care and transparency has attracted like-minded individuals who contribute their time, resources, and expertise. From small business owners to legislators, board members to volunteers, these supporters form a network united by shared values and vision.
Beyond food security, Padilla's work touches on broader philosophical questions about authenticity, self-knowledge, and human connection. "Humans are so much more alike than they are dissimilar," she observes, echoing conversations with Salt Lake City Mayor Erin Mendenhall. This perspective informs the coalition's mission to break down barriers and foster understanding through the universal language of food.
As we confront the challenges of inequitable food systems, organizations like Food Justice Coalition demonstrate how community-based solutions can address immediate needs while working toward structural change. Their model reminds us that meaningful impact often begins with simple acts of service, guided by the wisdom that comes from lived experience and a commitment to honoring the dignity of all.
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