EVERY FRIDAY, YOU CAN SEE community members distributing and picking up free produce across Northeast Los Angeles. These hyperlocal food hubs are part of the Northeast LA Mercadito—a market-style food distribution launched by nonprofit organization LA Más and managed by local residents.

Mercadito is just one example of the community-led initiatives that LA Más helps design and build in partnership with working class communities of color. Across all of LA Más’ programs, the organization works to create pathways to community ownership and elevate resident leadership.

This is also true in their Alternative Affordable Housing program, where residents can build affordable housing and shape local development. LA Más’ cornerstone initiative, the Backyard Homes Project, offers a one-stop shop for homeowners to build and rent accessory dwelling units (ADUs) affordably to Section 8 tenants. LA Más is also exploring other alternative housing models that reflect the lived experiences of working class families.

At LA Más, people define communities and have the collective power to shape their neighborhoods. By partnering with residents to mitigate displacement and promote economic resilience, the organization is making sure that community development is collaborative, inclusive and equitable.