“SNAP is good for local economies – each dollar in federally funded SNAP benefits generates $1.79 in economic activity. Census Bureau data also show the crucial importance of federal nutrition programs and other supports for low-income families. When looking at the Census Bureau’s Supplemental Poverty Measure, which serves as an indicator of economic well-being, SNAP lifted 4.6 million people out of poverty in 2015.”
—via FRAC (Food Research & Action Center)
Food is fuel, food is freedom, food is political. That is the core of what Ghetto Gastro is about. And unfortunately, despite an abundance of food in this country, access is limited. Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits won’t go out on November 1st due to the government shutdown. Over 3 million New Yorkers and 42 million people in the US rely on SNAP to feed themselves and their families. Dozens of states are suing the Trump administration over food stamp cuts.
Black and Brown communities have always created their own systems of care when the government fell short. The Black Panther Party’s Free Breakfast Program in the ’60s sparked a light that stretched into the city’s first grassroots food banks, run by mothers, neighbors, and organizers who transformed scarcity into sustenance. That spirit still lives in places like One Love Community Fridge and other local collectives keeping the block fed, no questions asked. Those organizations need our help now more than ever.
First, check in with your neighbors. Local families, seniors, shelters. See if they need a hand or a meal. Pull out a seat at your own table.
Find your nearest food bank through FeedingAmerica.com or FoodBankNYC.org to donate food, funds, or time.
Tap into One Love Community Fridge based in Harlem with fridges all throughout the boroughs. One Love keeps free fridges stocked with fresh produce, water, and other essentials for people in need of assistance. You can find other local fridges here. Take what you need. Leave what you can. Also: anyone can start their own fridge.
And here’s how to donate most meaningfully:
Check your own pantry for items you can donate. Non-perishables are great in that aspect. Make sure these items haven’t reached their expiration dates. Avoid donating items that require can openers or special tools.
Donate money. This is better than going to the store and buying groceries to donate. Why? Most pantries have partnerships with local stores for discounts (and don’t pay sales tax) so your dollar will stretch farther in that aspect. Plus, they can gauge what they already have and shop accordingly.
Two of our favorites to support:
Rethink Food. This NYC-based nonprofit reimagines restaurant waste into restaurant-quality meals for people facing food insecurity.
Sky High Farm. Founded by artist Dan Colen, this upstate farm grows organic produce and raises livestock exclusively to donate to food access programs across New York.
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