4Roots is honored to announce an exciting partnership with Orlando Health, the Presenting Partner of Meet the Need, 4Roots’ cornerstone food access program, and the Healthcare Partner of the future Stonebarn Event Center at the 4Roots Farm Campus. This partnership strengthens the shared commitment of both organizations to advancing community health, expanding access to nutritious food, and creating a more resilient and equitable food system for Central Florida.
ABOUT MEET THE NEED
Founded in 2020 in response to the COVID-19 pandemic, Meet the Need (MTN) is dedicated to enhancing food security and community well-being in underserved areas—including food deserts and vulnerable neighborhoods across Central Florida. More than a traditional food distribution initiative, Meet the Need focuses on expanding access to fresh, locally grown produce and wholesome meals, improving nutrition literacy, and strengthening the connection between food and long-term health. Through partnerships with local farmers, nonprofits, schools, and community organizations, MTN has become a vital resource for families facing food insecurity.
With Orlando Health’s support, Meet the Need will continue to expand the delivery of fresh produce, increase outreach to communities most affected by food insecurity, and ensure that more families have access to healthy, dignified, and reliable food resources.
“Orlando Health’s partnership allows us to reach even more neighbors with the fresh, healthy food they deserve,” said John Rivers, Founder and CEO of 4Roots. “This collaboration strengthens the foundation of Meet the Need and supports our shared belief that nourishing people is essential to building healthier communities.”
As part of this expanded partnership, Orlando Health has also been named the Healthcare Partner of the future Stonebarn Event Center—a signature facility within the upcoming Community Engagement Phase of the 4Roots Farm Campus. Designed to seat 300 for dining and up to 500 for lectures, the Stonebarn will serve as a regional destination for culinary medicine programs, mission-focused events, community celebrations, and educational workshops that bring together leaders across health, agriculture, education, and the broader community.
“The work that 4Roots is doing to expand access to healthy food, provide nutrition education, and empower individuals to take charge of their health through what they eat is remarkable,” said Kelly Nierstedt, senior vice president, Orlando Health’s Orlando Region. “We’re delighted to support them as the Presenting Partner of Meet the Need and as the Healthcare Partner of the Event Center to further foster learning, raise awareness, and build a healthier community.”
The Stonebarn Event Center is part of a larger vision to transform the 4Roots Farm Campus into a community destination. Additional planned features include a Community Stage and Green, as well as The Garden House—an innovative greenhouse combining education, culinary exploration, and hands-on learning in a space where ingredients can be grown, harvested, prepared, and enjoyed side by side.
Together, these initiatives reflect the next chapter of 4Roots’ mission: cultivating a future where every person has access to fresh, nutritious, ethically grown food and where food becomes a force for healing, connection, and community.
About 4Roots
Founded in 2015, 4Roots is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization dedicated to unearthing the power of food to build healthy communities. Rooted in the belief that food is central to the health of individuals, communities, and the planet, 4Roots advances regenerative farming, combats food insecurity, and strengthens connections between people, land, and resources. The 4Roots Farm Campus serves as a living laboratory to reimagine the food system and cultivate a future where everyone has access to fresh, nutritious, and ethically grown food. To learn more or explore partnership opportunities, visit www.4rootsfsupport-2/arm.org