As Food+ Programs expand this fall, we are able to help more families move from experiencing food insecurity into long-term stability. We know we cannot address all root causes of hunger, but our Food+ Programs, in tandem with the other community organizations supporting our community, can make a difference.

Though we have established programs focused in Nutrition Education and SNAP Application Assistance contributing to our Food+ offerings, 2025 felt like a year of piloting new initiatives as we launched three new programs: Workforce Development, Financial Empowerment, and Resource Navigation. In the past 10 months alone, over 1,000 individuals and families were engaged in Food+ Programming. 755 neighbors participated in Food+ Nutrition courses, workshops, and budgets, learning how to prepare healthy meals and stretch their grocery budgets. 16 interns gained valuable job training through Food+ Futures, preparing them for lasting employment. Through Food+ Access, staff and volunteers supported 292 families in submitting SNAP applications and connecting them with other resources. And in Food+ Finances, 24 participants took part in financial empowerment workshops designed to build confidence with budgeting and credit.

After seeing the initial results, we are investing more into these programs this fall. Expanding programming will allow more individuals and families to gain skills, build community, and become more financially and socially resilient. All programs are highly customizable, ensuring we provide relevant and timely curriculum to the families we serve.

As Program Director Marcie Walsh explains, “The reason we chose the name Food+ is because food insecurity is rarely caused by a single issue. Some families may have income but need support with budgeting or using credit safely. Others may need new skills or work experience to move into higher-paying jobs. Food+ allows us to bring these resources directly into our food pantry systems, so families can access the support that makes sense for them. Together, these programs create real pathways toward stability.”

Food+ continues to grow thanks to the support of our community. Whether you are looking for support or looking for ways to give, you can be part of this work.

 Learn more here.