Food Bridge wins Rep. Barbara Lee’s 2023 Congressional App Challenge in California’s 12th District

When asked what inspired the creation of Food Bridge, the student said, “In the United States, over 40% of food goes to waste each year. This not only contributes to climate change but also misses the opportunity to feed those facing food insecurity. In recent years, the number of families using food assistance programs has continued to rise. During the pandemic, due to economic chaos, unemployment, and heavy inflation, an increasing number of people have come to rely on food assistance organizations. Feeding America reported that in 2021, more than 53 million people turned to public food programs for help, marking a one-third increase compared to the pre-pandemic period. However, food donations have fallen by nearly 40% in recent years, according to Silicon Valley food bank [Second Harvest].

While many people rely on public food assistance programs, food-insecure populations often face obstacles in accessing them.

First, not all food-insecure individuals qualify for government nutrition programs. Eligibility criteria differ between food pantries. Some may require proof of income, residence, or household composition. Additionally, certain pantries may decline to assist the homeless, directing them to shelters or kitchens instead.

Second, the services must be obtained in person and on the pantry’s operation schedule. The pantry’s hours are not always convenient, especially for working families.

Third, some food pantries only serve people from certain geographic areas. If no food pantries exist in a community, households are not guaranteed to be fed elsewhere.

Fourth, bureaucratic and administrative hurdles pose challenges for food-insecure individuals trying to access these programs. A survey found that paperwork, the need to take time off work or from caregiving responsibilities, and difficulties in reaching the food stamp office deterred people from applying for benefits (Bartlett et al. 2004).

Motivated by the alarming statistics surrounding food waste and food insecurity, I created Food Bridge, a platform dedicated to solving both issues while ensuring equitable access. Food Bridge is designed to connect users eager to donate food with those facing food insecurity. It allows users to upload food items they wish to donate, providing details such as descriptions, pickup addresses and contact information. Simultaneously, users in need can browse the listings and select the items that they desire, all at their convenience. Anyone can be either a donor or a receiver, as long as they have internet access to either upload or review the listings. This innovative platform redistributes donated food to those in need, effectively addressing both food waste and food insecurity.”