Additional $45K Grant from the Cummings Foundation to Expand Gus the Grocery Bus Food Security Program

United Way of Tri-County is proud to announce that it received an additional $45,000 grant from Cummings Foundation to support Gus the Grocery Bus (Gus), the organization's mobile food pantry that brings nutritious meals directly to individuals and families experiencing food insecurity throughout the region.

The additional funding was awarded following a recent site visit by representatives from Cummings Foundation, who were impressed by the program's impact on the communities it serves. During the visit, a client at a 55+ housing complex shared how meaningful Gus has become for older adults in her community, explaining that many residents depend on the program for consistent access to healthy meals.

The grant will help United Way of Tri-County continue expanding the reach of Gus, ensuring that nutritious food is accessible to individuals who face barriers to visiting a traditional food pantry, including older adults, people with disabilities, those without reliable transportation, families with children under 18, and others experiencing hardship.

"We are incredibly grateful to Cummings Foundation for recognizing the impact Gus is making in our communities," said Joe Mina, Director of Food Security, Pearl Street Cupboard & Café and Gus. "Hearing directly from the people we serve reinforces why this program is so important. This additional funding will allow us to reach even more neighbors with fresh, nutritious meals while helping ensure that no one has to choose between paying bills and putting food on the table."

Demand for food assistance continues to grow throughout the 37 communities served by United Way of Tri-County as many households struggle with rising grocery prices and the increased cost of living.

The timing of the grant comes as Gus continues to expand its reach. Last month, the mobile food pantry added its third regular community location, bringing healthy food closer to even more residents in need. United Way of Tri-County is also actively working with another location to launch a fourth location soon, further increasing access to food for underserved neighborhoods.

"This investment from Cummings Foundation allows us to continue growing a program that meets people where they are," Mina added. "Food insecurity doesn't always look the same from one community to another, and bringing groceries and hot meals directly into neighborhoods removes barriers and helps ensure everyone has access to healthy food."

United Way of Tri-County has been serving local communities for more than 90 years through programs that address food security, mental health, early literacy, financial stability, and basic needs. Through innovative initiatives like Gus, the organization continues its mission of strengthening communities and improving lives.

For more information about Gus the Grocery Bus or United Way of Tri-County's food security programs, or to make a donation, visit uwotc.org.