At the heart of Bread for the City’s Food Program lies a core belief: food is not just a necessity, but a catalyst for building resilient, thriving communities. One of the most inspiring examples of this is our partnership with Milagro, a Salvadoran immigrant living in Washington, DC’s Mount Pleasant neighborhood. When the COVID-19 pandemic hit, Milagro witnessed her neighbors losing jobs, falling ill, and struggling to meet their basic needs.  Milagro stepped up to fill that gap, and in doing so, sparked a grassroots movement that continues to thrive today.

Milagro’s dedication knows no bounds. At the height of the pandemic,As her role in the community grew, she reached out to Bread for the City to support her efforts by coordinating monthly food deliveries. Today, these drop-offs provide hundreds of local families with fresh, nutritious groceries—freeing up Milagro to continue her advocacy and expand her impact.

What began with one woman’s determination has blossomed into a collaborative effort, with other community members stepping in to support Milagro’s work, now known as Grupo Acción. is a shining example of how our Food Program empowers not just individuals but entire communities. What started with one woman’s determination has blossomed into a collective effort, with other community members stepping up to help distribute food and support their neighbors in need. Bread for the City’s role in this partnership is not just about supplying food—it’s about empowering local leaders like Milagro to build the capacity of their own communities. With our monthly food support, Grupo Acción can focus on expanding its reach and responding to the evolving needs of their neighbors.

For Milagro, food is more than sustenance. It’s a way to honor and celebrate her Salvadoran heritage, often sharing traditional foods like pupusas with her neighbors. Through Grupo Acción, food becomes a tool for connection, culture, and resilience. Milagro’s leadership reminds us that the true power of food goes beyond the plate—it unites people, builds strength, and lays the foundation for lasting change. Bread for the City is proud to stand alongside leaders like Milagro through our Food Program, ensuring that everyone in our city has access to not only the food they need but also the community support that helps them thrive.