Steven Hoffen is tackling global food insecurity with a groundbreaking solution—all before graduating high school. Through his nonprofit, Growing Peace, Steven is pioneering a more sustainable future. Since its inception, he has raised $80,000 and used these funds to bring hydroponic growing systems to communities in need worldwide. Thanks to his efforts, nutritious produce such as kale, collard greens, cilantro, basil, strawberries, and cherry tomatoes have provided over 33,500 servings annually to asylum seekers, the elderly, vulnerable populations, food-insecure communities, and formerly incarcerated individuals.

Partnering with organizations in New York City and Israel, Growing Peace has successfully installed hydroponic systems in diverse settings, including food banks, community centers, and facilities for low-income and disabled seniors.

“I hope to play my part in improving the world by providing healthy and nutritional food where it is less available and sharing a platform that can help teach others to become more aware of the benefits of farming techniques that improve our climate,” Steven says.

Hydroponics, an energy-efficient farming technique, uses nutrient-rich water instead of soil to cultivate plants. This method, supported by organizations like the United Nations and World Resources Institute, is crucial as the global population approaches 10 billion by 2050, coupled with the challenges of climate change. Hydroponics requires less water and land, making it a sustainable solution for communities to grow more food in smaller spaces.

Steven founded Growing Peace in 2021 with a mission to educate, empower, and help others overcome food insecurity through advanced hydroponic farming. His impactful work has earned him several prestigious awards, including CNN Heroes 2023 Young Wonder, the 2023 Diller Teen Tikkun Olam Award, and a 2023 International Eco-Hero Award from Action For Nature.

Growing Peace is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, dedicated to combating food insecurity in New York City and beyond. By installing hydroponic systems on-site with partner organizations, Steven is not only providing immediate solutions but also creating a model for sustainable agriculture worldwide.

For more Stories From The 78, follow @tombarnas78 on Instagram and @storiesfromthe78 on TikTok.