Hope Farms Urban Agricultural Showcase and Training Center - Recipe for Success — Attraction in Houston

A “Nonprofit” Exploiting Veterans and the Sunnyside Community

I’m a veteran who paid to join Hope Farms’ veteran urban farming program in Sunnyside, Houston — a program they aggressively marketed as training for veterans looking to learn sustainable agriculture and reintegrate into civilian life. What I got instead was a bait-and-switch.

There was no real training. No agricultural education. No mentorship. Just empty buzzwords, busywork, and a toxic culture that silences creativity and punishes anyone who asks questions. Half the students were quietly dismissed, and the money disappeared into what staff casually referred to as a slush fund.

Hope Farms advertises itself as serving the Sunnyside community, but it’s a façade. They sell $4 eggs and overpriced boutique produce in one of Houston’s poorest neighborhoods — products locals can’t afford. The result? A photo-op farm owned by white founders, parading as social justice while exploiting both veterans and a historic Black community.

If you’re a veteran, volunteer, or donor, take this as a warning. Your money won’t support real training or community impact. It props up an image — one that hides behind nonprofit paperwork and PR campaigns while doing next to nothing for the people it claims to help.

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Love that they have this gem in my community, and am lucky enough to have it just outside of my neighborhood! Fresh produce and local products, along with a friendly and inviting staff. Have had a great experience each time my wife and I have visited. As far as I know they are only open on Saturdays for...

Made my first visit to get some produce this weekend, and I was amazed. Beautiful place (even on a cold, wet, overcast day) and outstanding veggies. Great looking and delicious produce. They've got other products for sale as well. Very happy to have such a great resource...