Beyond Hunger in Chicago has made history as the first food pantry in the United States to participate in the Good Food Purchasing Program (GFPP). This program prioritizes values over low cost when making food purchases, recognizing the importance of an equitable food ecosystem. Originally implemented by the city of Los Angeles in 2012 and now used by nearly 75 institutions and coalitions nationwide, the GFPP emphasizes core values including supporting small local farms, prioritizing healthy and culturally relevant food, sourcing sustainably, respecting workers’ rights, and ensuring humane conditions for farm animals.

Beyond Hunger, having served Chicago and its northwest suburbs for over four decades, sees its participation in the GFPP as an opportunity to deepen its commitment to equity. The pantry had already been working with local farmers and gardeners to source meat and produce for its programs, as well as implementing composting and reducing single-use plastics. By joining the program, Beyond Hunger commits to purchasing food from marginalized or socially disadvantaged farmers, guaranteeing purchases from small growers, including at least one USDA Organic Certified product, offering vegetarian options, and ensuring that fruits, vegetables, and whole grains account for at least half of all food purchases by volume.

Brianne Kellogg, Beyond Hunger’s Nutrition Education Coordinator, describes these goals as modest but attainable, with the last goal already achieved. To meet these objectives, the pantry has started requesting specific food donations and is deepening its connection with a nearby family farm, Alden Hills Organic Farms, to source produce, grass-fed beef, pastured chickens and eggs. They are also incorporating plant-based options and recipes into their offerings.

GFPP provides a framework and resources to help organizations implement the program and track their progress. The program assigns points for achievements and determines an overall star rating. Kellogg notes that signing the pledge has not increased costs for Beyond Hunger so far, as they purchase from small farms in bulk, receiving discounts similar to other providers. The main challenge lies in obtaining enough eggs and meat for distribution, given the limited quantities from small farms. The pledge has served as an educational tool to raise awareness among vendors, donors, and clients about the pantry’s efforts to support the local food economy.

Kellogg encourages other pantries to explore GFPP, believing that its impact will grow as more organizations adopt it. She envisions a significant positive impact on individuals and community health as pantries across the nation begin to rethink food procurement and prioritize values-driven practices.