FreshDirect, the Northeast’s leading online fresh food grocer, and its charitable partner, NY Common Pantry, whose mission is to reduce hunger while promoting dignity, health and self-sufficiency, has launched a mobile pantry that will bring fresh food, nutrition education, and social services directly to food insecure New Yorkers in their own neighborhoods throughout the city. Made possible by FreshDirect customer donations, the fully equipped vehicle is the latest innovation in reimagining the pantry model and fighting food insecurity and hunger, according to the companies.
“When we decided to launch our Mobile Pantry program and envisioned a specialized Mobile Pantry truck, FreshDirect once again stepped up to offer ideas, advice and technical know-how,” said Stephen Grimaldi, executive director of NYCP, in a statement. “This Mobile Pantry provides the same services we provide at our East Harlem and Bronx brick-and-mortar locations and will change the way entire communities eat.”
The 22-foot customized vehicle is fitted with refrigerators and freezers to properly store proteins, produce, and dairy and has ample shelving for shelf stable items. There is a window and concession door to take orders and for serving clients. Additionally, social services staff will have the ability to sign people up for Choice Pantry Membership at the truck, provide emergency food, and assist people with accessing benefits including SNAP.
“The NYCP Mobile Pantry is another example of how our combined resources and expertise are leveraged to expand our reach, get us closer to our neighbors in need, and combat food insecurity in New York City,” said Dave Bass, managing director, FreshDirect, in a statement.
Since February 2020, the philanthropic collaboration between FreshDirect and NYCP has provided FreshDirect customers with an opportunity to support the cause through a variety of easy donation options, ranging from $1.34 (the cost of one pantry meal) to $100 (the cost of one year of pantry groceries for a family in need) on the company’s website. FreshDirect is also providing office space at its facility in the Bronx to the NYCP’s corporate employees at no cost to NYCP.
Related: FreshDirect Cuts Prices Across Center Store; FreshDirect Debuts Rosé Express.