Expand Access to Fresh Foods in Boston
Status: Completed
Original Proposal
This proposal will offer grants to nonprofit organizations to bolster assistance programs for Boston residents facing food insecurity. The purpose of these grants is for residents to access fresh food (fruits and vegetables, dairy, eggs, meat, seafood).
Budget Breakdown
Total Budget: $400,000
Spent/Committed: $400,000
Remaining:
Implementation and Impact
The Office of Food Justice utilized these funds as part of a coordinated city response to the November 2025 SNAP funding delay caused by the federal government shutdown. This initiative was part of a larger Mayoral partnership with the Boston Foundation, which successfully raised over $3 million.
- Greater Boston Food Bank ($100,000): Allocated to expand food distribution to member agencies (food pantries) across Boston to bridge the gap created by the SNAP crisis.
- SNAP Outreach Partners ($300,000): Distributed among 10 partner organizations in Boston.
- Direct Family Assistance: These partners provided gift cards to families impacted by the delay, ensuring they could purchase essential groceries throughout November.
