My proposal is a Community Pantry Finder. The Pantry Finder is a digital project designed to help address food insecurity in the West Chester area. This will provide an interactive map showing the locations of food pantries, donation drop off points, and other resources where food is available. Users will be able to quickly locate open pantries nearby, check their hours, and volunteers will be able to learn how to access or contribute to the food assistance programs.
The 4 Ws
Who
The project proposal and idea was created by Rebecca Buonomo, a DH student at West Chester University.
What
The project will feature an interactive digital map with clickable points showing pantry details, donation instructions, operating hours, and contact information with links to each pantry’s website. This website and proposal is offering to help those in need and facing food insecurity.
Where
West Chester, PA, and Chester County. I, Rebecca am originally from New Jersey but am familiar with the area due to the fact I am a third-year student at West Chester University.
When
The platform will be accessible year-round and updated regularly with new pantry locations and schedules if needed. The project begins in 2025 and will launch in early 2026.
Significance: Food insecurity affects thousands of families in the United States as well as many in the West Chester area. With things such as SNAP benefits being cut many people are facing tough times. This interactive, easy-to-use digital resource empowers those in need and those who want to help. This project aligns with social justice principles by increasing access to essential resources, raising awareness about local food insecurity and fostering community support.