By Daniel Rickenmann, Mayor of Columbia, South Carolina
In Columbia, South Carolina, we are steadfast in our commitment to ensuring every resident has access to fresh, nutritious food. Addressing food insecurity isn’t just about policy—it’s about taking care of our neighbors. We know that too many families struggle to put fresh food on the table, and we’re working to change that.
One of the biggest challenges we face is the number of food deserts in our community—places where people simply don’t have access to grocery stores with affordable, healthy options. When people don’t have access to fresh food, it affects everything—their health, their quality of life, and even the future of our children.
That’s why we’ve partnered with Instacart to extend our Grocery Access Pilot (GAP) program. This program helps bridge the gap for families who live in food deserts or who don’t have transportation to the store. Eligible participants receive a complimentary Instacart+ membership, which means free grocery delivery on orders over $35, plus a monthly stipend to help cover extra fees. It’s been a success so far—most folks who use the program say they’re very satisfied, and we’re excited to keep it going for another year. If we can make grocery shopping easier and more affordable for families, that’s a win for everyone.
Another exciting initiative is our partnership with Toms Creek Family Farms to bring a mobile food market to neighborhoods in Columbia. This “grocery store on wheels” travels to different areas to provide fresh produce, meats, dairy, and baked goods to people who need them most. The market accepts multiple forms of payment, including SNAP benefits and Healthy Bucks, to ensure affordability for all residents. Instead of making people come to the food, we’re bringing the food to them. It’s a simple but powerful way to tackle food insecurity in our city.
As we work to improve food access, we know solutions don’t happen overnight. It takes partnerships, community involvement and a commitment to seeing things through. Our Columbia Food Policy Committee is doing critical work advocating for policies that support local farmers, improve food distribution, and ensure fresh food is available for every family. Looking ahead, we’re exploring ways to support urban agriculture, expand farmers’ markets, and find even more ways to make fresh food accessible in every corner of our city.
Beyond Columbia, I am proud to be part of the national Mayors Alliance to End Childhood Hunger. This coalition of mayors across the country is working together to address food insecurity, particularly for our youngest and most vulnerable residents. We are committed to finding sustainable solutions to ensure that no child goes hungry. By sharing best practices, leveraging resources, and advocating for policies to expand food access, we are making a national impact while strengthening our local efforts right here in Columbia.
Addressing food insecurity is about more than just solving a problem—it’s about taking care of each other. As mayor, I believe no individual, family, or child in Columbia should have to worry about where their next meal is coming from. I encourage everyone to get involved, whether it’s through using these programs, spreading the word, or volunteering with local organizations that fight hunger.
Together, we can make sure that every family in the Capital City has access to the food they need to live healthy, happy lives. Let’s keep working together to build a stronger, healthier, and more connected community!
