HOUSTON, TX - A new year means a new report from Brighter Bites showing its ongoing progress toward its goal of delivering fresh produce and nutrition information to families nationwide. As part of its 2022 Annual Report, the nonprofit took a close look at its financials, nutrition education material distribution, number of schools and families served, and information about its new Produce RX program.
“Over the past 10 years, we’ve been committed to creating communities of health through fresh food by providing resources for families to live and create healthier lifestyles,” said Lisa Helfman, Founder of Brighter Bites. “With the support of our dedicated donors and volunteers, we’ve been able to achieve great things and make a positive impact on the communities we serve. That’s something worth celebrating!”
Since 2012, the organization has served over 500,000 families, taught more than 150,000 nutrition education lessons, and distributed over 50 million pounds of fresh produce, a release explained. Highlights from the 2022 Annual Report include:
- Overall growth in school sites of 38 percent
- 7,134,405 pounds of food were distributed in the nine areas across the country which Brighter Bites serves: Houston, Dallas, Austin, New York City, the Washington, D.C. Metropolitan area, Southwest Florida, Salinas, Los Angeles, and Bakersfield
- 8,411 nutrition education lessons and activities were taught in classrooms across the country
- The organization received $6,459,160 in in-kind donations from food banks and produce industry partners in 2022
Throughout the year, the nonprofit also implemented key activities that strengthened its impact, such as the Brighter Bites’ first gala, which was held in November 2022 and celebrated 10 years of programming. Overall, it raised more than $700,000 in donations. Additionally, the organization opened programming in Bakersfield and Los Angeles, California, as well as laid groundwork for its 10th city opening in San Antonio, Texas, in 2023.
“I am moved by our donors, partners, and staff who have risen to the occasion to overcome obstacles this past year, demonstrating resilience and an uncompromising dedication to the communities we serve,” said Rich Dachman, Chief Executive Officer. “I want to also thank our extraordinary employees and wonderful Board of Directors who constantly prioritize our Brighter Bites families in doing whatever it takes to provide them with fresh produce and educational materials.”
Cheers to Brighter Bites on a successful year of helping local communities!
