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We are building our World U.P. by improving access to resources that allow humans to connect, learn, and empower each other through kindness and love.
We are building our World U.P. by improving access to resources that allow humans to connect, learn, and empower each other through kindness and love.
FAQ
What is a Mobile Produce Pantry (MPP)?
Our Mobile Produce Pantry (MPP) is a 6’6’12 utility trailer fitted
with an A/C unit, a CoolBot, and ample storage for fresh fruits
and vegetables! Using a pickup truck, we can then transport fresh produce to different locations throughout the RVA to increase food security in Richmond and the community's access to nutrient-rich foods!
Where can
the MPP go?
ANYWHERE in Central RVA! The MPP has the capacity to store, distribute, and provide a space to demonstrate food prep ideas
on how to prepare healthy produce in new and innovative ways.
We can support: Existing Food Pantries | Farmers Markets | Organizations with Healthy Eating Programs | Cultural Cooking Exchange Programs | Skills Training Programs
How does the
MPP differ from other pantries?
We are mobile and specialize in produce. Most food pantries
in Richmond lack the ability to store and distribute produce to the community. Our pantry is on wheels so we can travel to a variety
of existing pantries that lack the infrastructure and increase their ability to include fresh produce in their distribution.
How much
food can the MPP distribute?
1500lbs! For reference, because of our partnership with Feed More, 1,500lbs can be purchased with a $50 gift!
Where is the producing coming from?
We are a part of the Feedmore Agency Network! While Feedmore has historically only worked
with brick-and-mortar food pantries, our exciting new relationship allows World U.P. to source
fresh and healthy produce at a fraction of the retail cost, and allow Feedmore to provide additional service options to their existing food pantries so that they may expand their distribution options!!
We are always looking for new food sources - so if you know a grocery store or farm looking
for a way to get food into the community, please contact us!
What types of impact does the MPP make?
This project will have a strong and lasting impact
on the Richmond community. The MPP impacts
three separate and measurable areas.
1
Improve food security to diverse underserved communities within Central Virginia. This program can provide families with healthier minds, bodies, and empower communities. Healthy, nutrient-rich foods are vital to reducing truancy rates, increasing employment rates, and building a diverse community. Proper nutrition is necessary for communities to begin to heal from neglect and impoverishment. This impact will be measured by tracking
the number of families we serve and the amount of produce
they are provided.
2
Provide support and assistance to pre-existing organizations that operate food pantries,
but cannot support the storage and distribution of produce. Partnership with these
organizations will strengthen the nonprofit sector of Richmond, Virginia, and will encourage future partnerships that share and efficiently utilize community resources. Implementing
a program that assists multiple existing organizations in achieving their missions just makes fiscal and economic sense. This impact is measured by the number of organizations
we are able to serve each year.
3
A gentle reminder to Richmond companies and community members that food deserts
are still highly prevalent in Richmond and need to be served with more permanent measures.
In 2015, Richmond ranked third in the country for having the most grocery stores per capita. Since then, we have seen the entrance of Wegmans, Publix, Lidl, and the addition of many
new Aldi franchises, making it reasonable to assume that Richmond has not fallen in those rankings.
What are other potential uses and locations
of interest for the MPP?
Farmer’s Markets
Festivals
Homeless Shelters
Cultural Centers
A Feed More Wellness Pantry
Cultural Cooking Exchange/Demos
Presenting Cooking Demos
Converting your pantry into a library
School Breakfast and/or Snack Programs
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