HOUSTON, TX - Curious to see how the efforts made by Brighter Bites contributed to increased produce consumption? You're in luck, as the organization just released its 2023 annual report.

“I am so appreciative for the unwavering commitment and support to our mission from all of our donors and partners at every level of our organization,” said Rich Dachman, Chief Executive Officer. “Together, we have made significant strides in addressing health and food insecurity by providing fresh fruits and vegetables along with vital nutrition education to under-resourced families in our communities. This results in creating new consumers for the produce industry and increasing fruit and vegetable consumption. In the face of challenges, your support and generosity has been a beacon of hope. Thank you for your extraordinary support!"

The report includes Brighter Bites’ financials, the partnerships that make its mission possible, information about the unique produce distributed, and a general look back at 2023. The annual report also contains information about plans for 2024.

Key highlights found within the report include:

• Over 8,000,000 pounds of fresh fruits and vegetables were distributed in the eleven cities across the country which Brighter Bites serves, a 12 percent increase from 2022
• There were 2,735,333 total family and classroom encounters where Brighter Bites staff interacted directly with families and students at produce distribution and in the classroom, a 26 percent increase from 2022
• The organization received 6,796,759 pounds of in-kind donations from food banks and produce industry partners in 2023, a 5 percent increase from 2022

“At the heart of our mission is the belief that access to fresh produce and nutrition education are fundamental rights for all individuals and families, regardless of their socioeconomic status,” said Lisa Helfman, Founder. “Over the course of the past year, we have been able to make tangible differences in the lives of countless families across the country.”

In 2023, Brighter Bites launched the Produce RX Program as part of its partnership with UTHealth and DoorDash, opened programming in San Antonio and Phoenix, and coordinated over 18,630 hours of volunteer work.

Brighter Bites’ 2023 annual report can be downloaded here.

Congratulations on these impressive milestones!