rio grande food inc.

Rio Grande Food Project's mission is to alleviate hunger by offering quality, emergency food aid to all in need while facilitating access to programs which impact the causes and effects of food insecurity. Started in 1989, Rio Grande Food Project is the largest food pantry on Albuquerque's west side. Hunger is a chronic condition in New Mexico ranking 7th for overall hunger and 2nd in the US for child food insecurity. We "rescue food" in partnership with Fathers Building Futures (FBF), a local non-profit helping formerly incarcerated fathers get back on their feet. FBF drivers conduct our "food rescue" efforts. In our Food for Health Program, in collaboration with UNM's west side Health Clinic and Roadrunner Food Bank, whole grains, low sugar/low sodium canned goods, healthy proteins and unlimited fresh fruits and vegetables are distributed to those screening positively for diabetes and food insecurity. We aim to prevent hunger by inviting community partners on site to assist clients beyond immediate food needs to help maximize their budgets and create long-term stability. Job training opportunities, Medicare, Medicaid, SNAP (food stamps) enrollment support, utility and water bill assistance, emergency cell phone services, nutrition education, financial literacy and mental health services all add value to our clients' visits and may prove to prevent the need for supplemental food aid in the future. We grow produce in our Community Garden and will be increasing the local community's involvement in food growth and production. In 2017 RGFP: Provided 1.1 million pounds of groceries to an average of 4,230 kids, adults and seniors every month Received 59,239 pounds of community donated food Rescued and redistributed 190,588 pounds of grocery store food that would otherwise have gone to waste. Provided $484,879 in PNM Good Neighbor Fund utility bill assistance to 3,802 low-income households Visit www.rgfp.org to learn how you can help.