HANDS Diverse Pantry

October 2023

“HANDS Diverse Pantry” is our newest program. After an assessment of need with many individuals and organizations, we are filling gaps in getting food to older adults in our immigrant and BIPOC (Black, Indigenous, and People of Color) communities. Now in our second year, we offer a “pantry” with staples such as fresh culturally-friendly veggies, a variety of dried beans, different kinds of rice, herbs and spices, eggs, meat, and more.

Jenna Thayer was the original Program Director (thank you, Jenna!). Erick Nsabimana, who is from Burundi and speaks seven languages, now helps us tremendously by connecting Farmer Janine, Farmer Shabagwe, Farmer Theogene, Farmer Peres, Feeding Chittenden, M Square Vermont, and elders. Boxes are packed at Feeding Chittenden’s warehouse. Erick then delivers the groceries—-we’re so grateful that Erick is with us again this year! Special thanks also to Susanna Penfield and Julia MacGibeny at Feeding Chittenden.

Our goal is to offer fresh, culturally-familiar food to older adults. The Diverse Pantry program includes coordination with partner organizations, oversight of packing and deliveries, creative problem-solving, and record keeping. HANDS partners with local farmers, AALV, Age Well, the City of Vermont, Feeding Chittenden, Mascoma Bank, and Vermont Foodbank, in a variety of ways. We are so grateful for this heartwarming community!