MARKET DAY

A Y TWIST ON FOOD PANTRIES: Y COMMUNITY MARKETS

Y Community Markets started as a response to needs that surfaced during the pandemic and were designed to elevate the food pantry experience. At Y Community Markets families get a unique shopping experience, choosing free food and hygiene products they will use rather than receiving pre-packaged bags of items that may not meet their needs. In addition to providing a more dignified experience for our families, shopping creates opportunities for more personal interactions with Y staff and volunteers.

The markets were started with a lead gift from the MetLife Foundation and have received support from Deloitte, the Cleveland H. Dodge Foundation, New York City Council, No Kid Hungry, NYC Human Resources Administration, Pepsico Foundation’s Food for Good Program, the Robin Hood Foundation, and YMCA of the USA. Since launching in 2021 the Y has distributed over 700,000 pounds of food to over 13,000 families from our Coney Island, Flatbush, and North Brooklyn communities.

We are looking to grow the program with our generous donors, volunteers, and dedicated Y staff. We know that the Y can help meet the challenge of food insecurity in our communities across the city.•