In 2008, a simple third-grade science project in Summerville, South Carolina, unexpectedly blossomed into a profound mission to combat food insecurity. Nine-year-old Katie Stagliano cultivated a single cabbage seedling into an astounding 40-pound vegetable. Rather than keeping it for her family, Katie donated the colossal cabbage to a local soup kitchen, where it helped feed 275 people.
This initial act of generosity, however, was just the beginning. A subsequent visit to the soup kitchen profoundly impacted young Katie. Witnessing firsthand the widespread need for fresh produce, she realized the significant difference one vegetable could make. This experience ignited a powerful desire within her to grow more food, not just for herself, but for countless families facing hunger.
The Birth of Katie's Krops
Inspired by her eye-opening visit, Katie founded Katie's Krops in 2009. This non-profit organization empowers children and teenagers to establish and maintain gardens, donating their harvests to those in need. What began as a single backyard garden has since expanded into a robust network of over 100 youth-run gardens spanning 33 U.S. states.
Through the dedication of young volunteers, these gardens cultivate a variety of fruits and vegetables, which are then distributed to food banks, soup kitchens, and local communities. According to Katie's Krops, these collective efforts have resulted in the donation of more than 680,000 pounds of fresh produce, significantly enhancing access to nutritious food for hundreds of thousands of people.
Continuing to Grow and Inspire in 2026
Now in her late twenties, Katie Stagliano remains at the helm of the impactful non-profit she established as a child. In 2026, her unwavering commitment was recognized when she was honored as Lowcountry's Remarkable Woman and made an appearance on The Jennifer Hudson Show, further amplifying the reach and influence of her organization.
Katie's Krops continues its expansion, establishing new community gardens, organizing monthly meal distributions, and forging partnerships with local libraries to make fresh produce more readily available in food deserts. In 2025, the organization marked its 15th anniversary by serving approximately 700 free meals at a special community dinner, with Katie reaffirming her dedication to the mission for many years to come.
Katie Stagliano's remarkable journey underscores how a seemingly small act, like growing an oversized vegetable, can ignite a powerful social movement. Her story serves as a testament to the enduring impact of generosity and the transformative potential of youth-led initiatives in addressing critical issues like food insecurity.