What is a Client Choice Food Pantry?
Market to HOPE is a client choice food pantry where individuals and families who are seeking food assistance will be able to shop and select food items most appropriate for their ethnic and cultural preferences and dietary restrictions, thereby honoring each person’s dignity.
Map the Meal Gap, a study sponsored by the Howard G. Buffet Foundation in conjunction with Feeding America, estimates that 59,370 individuals or 23% of residents in Jefferson County live in food insecure households. This is significantly higher than the nationwide rate of 13%. The United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) defines food insecurity as a state in which “consistent access to adequate food is limited by a lack of money and other resources.” Feeding Texas, a state affiliate of Feeding America, reports that 18,150 children in Jefferson County are living in food insecure homes.
With 42% of occupied households in the City of Beaumont having an annual income less than $35,000, food insecurity is an inevitable and frequent reality. Though many families are potentially eligible for the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), not all eligible families receive this benefit. Even when families are receiving SNAP benefits, they still fall short of what is needed to cover the full costs for sufficient food.
Quick Notes
Food Banks distribute food to member agencies or food pantries.
Food Pantries purchase food from food banks and distribute directly to clients.
Food Desert refers to areas with limited availability of fresh fruit, vegetables, and other healthful whole foods.
Market to HOPE is open six days a week and offers evening hours to improve access to food for working families.
Service is for low-to-moderate income and food insecure households.
Market to HOPE offers fresh fruits and vegetables to encourage healthier food choices.