The Pride Center of Vermont’s “Every Queer Eats” program may be starting off on the small side, with just about 10 recipients, but it’s a model for how to successfully reach out and take on the very big issue of food insecurity.
Reports NBC-TV 5 from Chittenden County:
Program coordinator Richard Elliot said a smaller version of this program happened over the summer. They recently restarted because they saw an increased need within the LGBTQ+ community, specifically amongst BIPOC Vermonters.
Elliot and the Pride Center of VT partnered with Everyone Eats, an effort run by Shift Meals and the Intervale Center. Everyone Eats provides Chittenden County residents with nutritionally balanced meals from local restaurants.
Organization partnerships help Everyone Eats meet people where they are, to reach demographics they may be missing.
“It was kind of a no-brainer to get them on board and get them the meals they are looking for.” Bella Fazio, Community Outreach and Distribution Manager for Everyone Eats, said. “There is food insecurity in all kinds of populations and if you’re able to find somewhere where people are already going for meetings or workplaces or safe spaces, it’s really helpful.”
Everyone Eats is currently being funded by FEMA. The funding was recently extended through June.
So far, the Pride Center of VT has about 10 recipients. Only a few months in, they’re hoping more people will soon feel comfortable putting their request in for some meals.
“People tend to be more receptive of organizations and companies and groups that are reflective of them.” Elliot said. “If someone who is a queer black or brown Vermonter sees me handing out food their more likely to go to me than an organization that is assisting the community but no one is looking like them.”
More: pridecentervt.org
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