Who Are We

Heal The Hood is a grassroots movement committed to empowering marginalized communities through community organizing, holistic healing, and resource distribution to foster self-determination, equity, and collective growth.

What We Believe

  • Community-Led Organizing: Empowering those most impacted by oppression to lead and innovate.

  • Arts as Organizing: Leveraging community arts as a tool for expression and mobilization.

  • Education for Self-Determination: Providing community education to build a strong foundation for organizing and leadership.

  • Direct Control of Resources: Supporting initiatives led by those directly impacted by social issues.

The Problem

Why Heal the Hood Supports:

  • Youth in Roxbury/Dorchester: At-risk youth need safe spaces, mentorship, and opportunities for growth.

  • Returning Citizens: Those who have been incarcerated face barriers to reintegration and deserve support in reclaiming their lives.

  • Low-Income Families: Food insecurity, financial instability, and lack of resources require targeted support.

How Heal the Hood Addresses These Issues:

Food Insecurity: Weekly "Feed the Hood" distributions to over 60,000 low-income individuals in Boston.

Community Healing & Gentrification: Advocacy, organizing, and mutual aid to ensure community members have the power to shape their futures.

Financial Insecurity: Direct funding, job training, and mentorship for returning citizens and marginalized groups.

Youth Development: After-school programs, summer sessions, and community building to support youth engagement and leadership.

Our Approach

Since 2021, Heal the Hood has served over 50 youth with after-school programs offering mentorship, tutoring, meals, and safe spaces. Our weekly Feed the Hood distributions have provided 60,000 individuals with essential items. In 2023, we expanded our initiatives:

  • People’s Free Store: Addressing basic needs for those in crisis.

  • G’s to Gents: Supporting 1,200+ returning citizens through events focused on healing and development.

  • House of Creativity: Showcasing artwork by 50 incarcerated artists and amplifying their voices.

  • Heal the Hood: Summer Sessions: Engaged 30 youth with creative and educational activities.