To help connect families to available food and nutrition resources, Hunger Free Colorado launched a new kind of food truck last week that will visit local neighborhoods throughout the Denver metro area. But this truck won't serve cupcakes, gourmet PB&J sandwiches or street tacos. It's serving up access to computers and personal support to help local residents apply for the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), as well as offer information on nearby food pantries and other child and senior nutrition programs.
"SNAP is the first line of defense against hunger, a safety-net for those struggling to get by, yet only 51% of eligible Coloradans participate in this vital public health program," said Kathy Underhill, executive director of Hunger Free Colorado. "Your Neighborhood Food Truck is a proactive way to reach families and individuals throughout our community who are experiencing hunger and unaware of local assistance options or unable to access services due to limited transportation or mobility."
Your Neighborhood Food Truck will visit a variety of sites throughout the city and county of Denver, including grocery stores, health clinics, recreation centers and community events in targeted areas. Hunger Free Colorado, in partnership with other agencies and organizations, will provide additional educational, screening and interactive opportunities under the truck's awning.
Thanks to Share Our Strength and the Denver Office of Economic Development for their funding support, as well as the many partners who assisted in launching this new program.
Learn more about Your Neighborhood Food Truck and how your organization or government agency can partner with the new mobile program. View photos from the May 7 launch event.
To find out if Your Neighborhood Food Truck is scheduled to make a stop in your area, view the online calendar or call the Hunger Free Hotline at (855) 855-4626.