AIA Canstruction | Houston We Have a Solution!

Houston as a city is known for taking on challenges that once seemed impossible. From guiding astronauts to the Moon to today’s efforts to return humanity to the lunar surface, Houston has shown that ambitious goals can be achieved when people work together toward a common goal.

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Our sculpture, “Mission Control: Launching a Hunger-Free Future,” brings that same spirit to one of the most important missions here on Earth: ending hunger.

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Inspired by Houston’s connection to space exploration, our build depicts a rocket and a lunar landing against a starry backdrop featuring the message “Houston, We Have a Solution.” It reimagines one of the most recognizable phrases in space history: “Houston, we have a problem.” When there is a problem, Houston responds! Hunger is a tremendous challenge, but it is a challenge we have the ability to address.

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The cans themselves are an important part of that story. One canned good may seem like a small contribution, but when thousands are brought together, they can create something extraordinary - a warm meal, comfort, and hope for someone in need.

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Every can used to create our lunar mission will ultimately return to its most important purpose: feeding someone in our community through the Houston Food Bank.

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Our sculpture may celebrate reaching for the Moon, but its real mission remains firmly grounded here on Earth. By working together, we can turn a seemingly enormous challenge into an achievable goal and move one step closer to a future where everyone has access to the food they need.

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The meal inspired by our chosen canned goods is a hearty Southwest Chicken Stew and Three-Ingredient Peach Cobbler.