As we close another impactful year, we’re thrilled to share the progress and stories from our Healthy Pantry Initiative (HPI). This year’s efforts have set the stage for even greater successes in 2025!
2024 Highlights
- Expanding Resources Through Training: We created 14 courses for the Virginia Learning Center to equip pantries statewide with resources for implementing Healthy Pantry Practices. This summer, 23 pantries participated in the pilot program.
- Successful Fundraising and Grant Distribution: Through dedicated fundraising, we secured $120,000 for the HPI Grant Pilot, benefiting 12 pantries across Virginia. Looking ahead, we raised over $200,000 for the 2025 grant cycle, which will be distributed in January.
- Enhanced Agency Assessment: The Annual Agency Assessment was revamped for 2025 and will roll out across the entire pantry network in January.
Impact in Action: Lorton Community Action Center
One of the year’s most inspiring stories comes from the Lorton Community Action Center (LCAC), which received $11,442 through the HPI Grant Pilot. With these funds, LCAC purchased translation devices, partnered with a Halal food vendor, and acquired a wagon to help clients transport food.
LCAC shared, “The translation devices have been phenomenal. Clients can better explain their needs, and we can effectively communicate food options, ingredients, and event information.”
A particularly moving moment involved an older Mongolian client who used the earbuds for the first time. After years of struggling to communicate, he exclaimed with tears of joy, “Now you can understand me!”
Looking Ahead
Stories like these reaffirm our mission and inspire us to continue expanding the Healthy Pantry Initiative. As we prepare for the 2025 grant cycle, we look forward to building on this year’s success and making an even greater impact in the lives of our neighbors.
Stay tuned for updates as we roll out new resources and initiatives in the year ahead!
