The nonprofit has an opportunity to tell the story of how the organization adapted to tremendous external changes in the last year.
When inflation caused grocery prices to rise dramatically this year, we recognized the growing need for food assistance, especially among people living on fixed incomes, such as seniors, veterans, and the disabled. To address this pressing problem, we created the "PopUp Grocery Store" program to bring high quality surplus groceries to Houstonians in need. We provide an average of $10,500 worth of food to 40 low-income housing sites and community centers on a monthly basis (about 2 per day), in addition to our regular food rescue operations. While there is no charge for our food or services, we encourage sponsorships by businesses and individuals to cover our operating costs (drivers' wages, fuel, insurance, supplies, logistics support, and site training and support.)
We deliver a vast assortment of fresh groceries that we rescue every day from Trader Joe's, Kroger, Whole Foods Market, and others. The site staff, who we train and support, display the food attractively on tables by category, including fresh vegetables, fruit, meat, dairy, packaged salads, sandwiches, individual meals, party platters, baked goods, and much more. The residents and community members enjoy a dignified free shopping experience, choosing whatever they'd like.
Shoppers get to try new products risk-free, which could lead to healthier food choices longer term. A 70-year-old who had never eaten lamb, told us that but lamb chops are now her favorite food. Another showed us a photo of the dinner she made from her PopUp bounty: filet mignon with a fresh mushroom glaze, roasted Brussel sprouts, and potatoes au gratin.
Shoppers appreciate the convenience of the "store" being right in their building or nearby community center, since access to transportation is often difficult and proximity to supermarkets is usually limited.