Columbia announces a one-year extension of the Grocery Access Pilot (GAP) program in partnership with Instacart.
The initiative aims to continue combating food insecurity and reducing diet-related illnesses across the city.
Many people face food insecurity or unequal access to fresh and healthy foods depending on where they live. USDA classifies someone as living in a food desert if they live more than one mile away from the nearest large grocery store, supermarket, or supercenter in an urban area. Other factors contributing to unequal access to food include lack of transportation, lower incomes, disabilities, or unemployment.
“The City of Columbia is reinforcing our commitment to helping residents who are in need of access to fresh and healthy food options,” said Mayor Daniel Rickenmann. “We cannot do this alone. It requires partnership and we are grateful to Instacart for staying at the table and helping us improve this critical issue in our community.”
The GAP program, a joint effort between Columbia and Instacart, offers eligible residents a complimentary Instacart+ membership along with a monthly Instacart Health Fresh Funds stipend to help cover fees. This program provides a practical solution for those living in food deserts or facing barriers to accessing groceries.
Following the first year of the GAP program, the City conducted a participant survey to gather feedback and insight into the experience and show the impact the program has. The results were as follows: 75 percent indicated they are “Very Likely” to continue participating in the GAP programs and 70 precent reporting being “Very Satisfied” with Instacart overall.
“Instacart is using technology to tackle food insecurity – a pressing issue for many people and families living in food deserts, where access to fresh and nutritious food is incredibly limited. Establishing the GAP program through our partnership with Mayor Rickenmann and the City of Columbia has helped connect residents with essentials. Following a successful first year, we’ve seen the power of public-private partnerships and we’re proud to extend the program for another year,” said Casey Aden-Wansbury, Instacart’s Vice President of Policy & Government Affairs.
With the extension, participants will also benefit from additional resources, including access to the Instacart-managed Fresh Funds customer care support line at 833-285-2200. This dedicated service addresses questions and concerns for GAP program participants. All established participants who qualify will continue to receive benefits. Qualified candidates can still apply, as 80 spots remain available.
Columbia continues its efforts to combat food insecurity. A 2020 report conducted by the City’s Food Policy Committee revealed that more than 65,000 Richland County residents need more equitable food access. The City remains dedicated to lowering this figure through investments in programs like the GAP program.
