Brooklyn Packers was founded in May 2016, as a Black-led, worker-owned cooperative reclaiming the local food system for the people.
We stand as a bridge between the land and the block, connecting small to mid sized farms and sustainable food producers to our communities and wholesale partners who reflect our values to build true food sovereignty from Hudson to Brooklyn and beyond.
Brooklyn Packers handles bulk food acquisition, packaging, and transportation for business clients, pantries and various institutions from BIPOC food producers, independent farmers, and foragers, across the Northeast who grow outside the industrial food system.
Our relationships with farmers allows us to offer veggie and market bundles and seasonal add-ons like fruit, herbs, microgreens, mushrooms, cheeses, butter, eggs, and breads.
Steph Wiley is New York City born and raised. He has over 20 years of entrepreneurial experience and has been a member of Just Food's board, the New York City Network of Worker Cooperatives (NYC NoWC) Advocacy Council, and the NYC NoWC Training Collective. Steph co-founded Brooklyn Packers with Shawn Santana in 2016. Along with his work at Brooklyn Packers, Steph is helping to develop a network of cooperative homesteads. He believes that aligned movements working together in solidarity is the best way to seek justice for all in our lifetimes.
Shawn was born and grew up in Far Rockaway, Queens. He enrolled in Park West High School (now Food and Finance High School), where he won an internship at Gracie Mansion for Mayor David Dinkins. He graduated from New York Restaurant School and became a partner in a successful catering company. He co-founded Soul Flavors restaurant in Jersey City, and co-founded Brooklyn Packers with Steph Wiley in 2016. Shawn has created and baked for many clients, including Martha Stewart, Lauryn Hill, MTV, Porsche, Shea Stadium, and Spike Lee.
