The city of Columbia has announced its participation in the White House’s Grocery Access Pilot (GAP) program, as part of the broader White House Challenge to End Hunger and Build Healthy Communities. In partnership with Instacart, the program aims to address food insecurity and promote healthier living in the community.
Residents who qualify for the GAP program will receive a complimentary Instacart+ membership and a monthly stipend to cover service fees. This will enable eligible residents to receive free delivery of food and home goods on orders over $35 for a year.
The program is specifically targeted at providing food access to those living in food deserts, where individuals live more than one mile away from the nearest grocery store in an urban area, according to the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA).
Groceries (Credits: WIS)
A report by the City’s Food Policy Committee in 2020 highlighted the need for more equitable food access, with over 65,000 Richland County residents identified as in need.
Mayor Daniel Rickenmann expressed the city’s commitment to reducing food insecurity and building a healthier community, stating that Columbia aims to serve as a model for other cities facing similar challenges and in need of innovative solutions.
The GAP program represents a significant step in addressing food insecurity and improving access to nutritious food for residents of Columbia. It underscores the city’s dedication to promoting health and well-being for all its residents and sets an example for other communities to follow in the fight against hunger.
