News

Gresham addresses food insecurity

June 7, 2024

$150,000 in food assistance grants

The City of Gresham is pleased to announce the awarding of seven food assistance grants, thanks to the allocation of $150,000 in American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) funds by Gresham City Council. These grants will provide additional food resources to hundreds of Gresham residents over the coming year. 

The City received 17 grant applications, totaling over $400,000 in requested funds. Each grant application was rigorously evaluated by a volunteer committee made up of local residents. The committee's evaluation was based on six criteria, including direct service to Gresham residents, applicant experience, availability of other funding sources, and project budget. The committee also considered diverse approaches to addressing food insecurity, from traditional food pantries to food delivery services and home gardening initiatives. 

The following grants were selected as the top-ranked applications: 

  • Birch Community Services, Sustainable Families Program: $20,000 
  • El Programa Hispano Catolico, Combatting Food Insecurity for East Multnomah County Latine Population: $28,800 
  • Growing Gardens, Building Home Gardens to Increase Food Security: $4,800 
  • Latino Network, Hartley Student Backpack Program: $26,200 
  • Outgrowing Hunger, Fresh Produce Delivery to Low-Income Families: $30,000 
  • SnowCap, Food Assistance in Gresham: $19,000 
  • Zarapeth Kitchen and Pantry, Supplemental Food for Monthly Food Assistance: $21,200 

Boosting local support

“We recognize that food insecurity is a real problem for far too many people in Gresham,” said Gresham Mayor Travis Stovall. “By awarding grants to the community-based organizations already doing great work, we are hopeful that we can make a meaningful difference to those that need it most.” 

The City extends its gratitude to the task force that provided invaluable advice on these awards. The dedication and hard work of these volunteers ensure that critical food resources reach those most in need in our community.