Health Access Program 

Established in 2021 in response to community need due to the COVID-19 pandemic, CBA’s Health Access program provides equitable access to health-related resources and preventative health education to a historically underrepresented community. The program equips our members, Acre residents, and the Lowell community with the tools to manage their health, access health insurance, and navigate the health care system.

Our work centers on addressing Social Determinants of Health, which are the nonmedical factors that influence health such as where you live and work.

CBA Health Access Includes:

A food pantry serving more than 1,000 households each month, providing culturally appropriate foods and spices with delivery to elderly Acre residents

Healthy cooking classes with a focus on honoring and sharing cultures while making healthy choices

Social activities that reduce isolation and encourage an active lifestyle, especially among seniors

Cooking and Nutrition

Flavors of the Acre Healthy Cooking Classes

Location: 517 Moody St. 3rd Floor, Lowell, MA

Date and time: Year Round

Staff Contact: Jiawei Zhang [email protected]

The Flavors of the Acre healthy cooking class is run weekly on Mondays from 10am - 12pm year-round (except holidays). This program is designed to increase awareness of chronic health conditions such as diabetes and high blood pressure, priorities in the 2023 Greater Lowell Health Alliance Community Health Improvement Plan, and to improve the quality life of Acre residents, with a focus on the Latino and Cambodian community. The program offers participants a unique opportunity to learn how to make healthier food choices while honoring and celebrating their cultural traditions.

Community Gardens

CBA operates two community gardens, one on Whiting Street and one on Moody Street. The Whiting Street Garden has 12 beds for CBA residents. Community gardens were made possible by our members and YES! After School Program. The Whiting Street Community Garden was rehabilitated in 2021 with 12 beds for CBA residents. Stay tuned for more information in the Spring of 2025!

CBA’s Food Pantry and Walk-In Center Page

CBA's Food Pantry is located in our Walk-In Center on Merrimack Street and is the only pantry in the Acre neighborhood. We provide fresh, desirable, and culturally appropriate foods to the Acre community with delivery for the elderly, homebound, or people with disabilities. Now serving more than 1,000 households each month, the food pantry was created in response to needs expressed by community members for affordable, convenient food access. Partners include Merrimack Valley Food Bank.

Check out other food pantries in the Merrimack Valley here

Location: 450 Merrimack Street, Lowell.

Hours of Operation:

Tuesdays 10AM-12 PM and 1PM-5PM

Wednesdays 9AM-12PM.

Located on: Whiting Street and Moody Street