MLCS is a community hub that helps families build healthier, more financially stable lives. Through affordable fresh food, housing support, education, workforce development, and community services, we create practical pathways to economic opportunity and better health.
By recovering an average of 120,000 pounds of fresh fruits and vegetables each month, we're increasing health while expanding affordable food access across Greater Boston and investing in stronger, more resilient communities while reducing waste.
EXPANDING FOOD ACCESS
ACROSS GREATER BOSTON
BUILDING
ECONOMIC MOBILITY
ADVANCING
COMMUNITY HEALTH
BUILDING
A REGIONAL
FOOD ACCESS
NETWORK
MLCS is now managing the Fair Foods Network, building on nearly four decades of community food distribution across Greater Boston.
Through this transition, MLCS is strengthening the last mile of the regional food system — connecting available food with nonprofits, schools, housing communities, healthcare providers, faith-based organizations and other trusted neighborhood partners.
Grab & Go
Our Grab & Go Produce Program is officially underway! We're excited to bring fresh, affordable produce to our community and are ready to serve you.
SCALING COMMUNITY
FOOD ACCESS
TOGETHER
MLCS is partnering with nonprofits, schools, housing communities, healthcare providers, and faith-based organizations to bring affordable fresh produce directly into neighborhoods across Greater Boston. Together, we're expanding access to healthy food while strengthening local communities.
Arts
CULTURE
COMMUNITY
POWER
At MLCS, arts and culture are part of the infrastructure we need to imagine, connect, create, and shape our future together.
Through the East Boston Community Studio & Makerspace, we create space to make, learn, share stories, build relationships, and bring new ideas to life.
MLCS is a participant in Culture of Justice 2.0, a national learning cohort supported by The Kresge Foundation and facilitated by Movement Strategy Center, exploring how arts, culture, and creativity can contribute to community power and systems change.
This work is helping us deepen a model of community cultural infrastructure rooted in East Boston—connecting creative practice with resident leadership, youth development, community organizing, and the broader work of building a more equitable neighborhood.
GET STARTED TODAY
Apply For Our Services
We’re here to support you and your family. Explore the programs below and apply for the services that best fit your needs. Need help choosing? Our team is here to guide you to the right program for your needs. Contact us at Elba@mlcsboston.org or call (617) 569-5146.
BUILDING THE FUTURE
From our East Boston roots to a citywide vision
We’re building infrastructure that creates lasting impact
modernizing warehouse & logistics operations
Expanding produce rescue & zero waste systems
Strengthening partnerships across Boston
Growing affordable access through subscriptions and community markets
Creating pathways to economic opportunity