City of Columbia expands innovative partnerships to address food insecurity

The City of Columbia is taking bold, collaborative steps to combat food insecurity through innovative partnerships, strategic investment, and community-centered programs. From mobile markets to technology-driven delivery, city leadership continues to prioritize equitable access to fresh, healthy food for all residents.

Watch our latest Telling Our Story video to learn more: https://youtu.be/Dh-WWCmYzeU

“Food insecurity is on everyone’s mind, and every community is tackling it in different ways,” said Mayor Daniel Rickenmann. “In Columbia, we’ve been intentional and creative in our approach, not just hoping a grocery store opens, but proactively building solutions that meet our people where they are.”

In 2024, the City of Columbia partnered with Tom’s Creek Family Farms to launch a Mobile Farmers Market, which now reaches neighborhoods in food desert-designated zip codes like 29203 and 29204. For the past 16 months, the market has delivered farm-fresh produce, meats, dairy, and pantry staples directly to underserved communities at competitive prices, helping to close critical food access gaps. This effort is supported by the Columbia Food Policy Committee, a citizen-led body formed to advise and support citywide food initiatives.

Another key component of the City’s food security strategy is its Grocery Access Program (GAP), launched in partnership with Instacart, North America’s leading online grocery platform. Instacart serves 100% of Columbia households, making it an ideal partner to help bridge the gap for residents with limited transportation or mobility. The GAP is in its second year and has enrolled more than 200 households in the City of Columbia.

Learn more about the City of Columbia’s Grocery Access Program (GAP): https://strategicinitiatives.columbiasc.gov/grocery-access-program-gap/

The City’s Office of Business Opportunities (OBO) plays a vital role in addressing food insecurity through its support of food-based entrepreneurs, mobile vendors, and minority-owned businesses. By offering grants, technical assistance, and access to capital, OBO helps local food providers grow their operations and reach underserved communities. These efforts not only improve food access but also strengthen the city’s local food economy and create job opportunities in historically under-resourced areas.

The City of Columbia has also integrated its Parks & Recreation Department to educate residents on how to use grocery delivery technology, ensuring that seniors and underserved populations can easily order food and even medications online.

Columbia is also home to Soda City Market, the nation’s top-ranked farmers market, offering additional access to affordable, local produce every weekend. The City encourages all residents to support these community markets and mobile services as a vital part of building a healthier, more connected Columbia.

Together, We Are Columbia.