Case study of a food relief grocery model: The Neighborhood Pop-Up Grocery Project

Abstract

In Austin, Texas, Sustainable Food Center, in partnership with Foodshed Investors and the city of Austin, responded to the COVID-19 crisis with a mini-grocery pilot project. The Neighborhood Pop-Up Grocery Pilot Project engaged local restaurants to serve as points of access for fresh and affordable food. This model served as both a food-access and supply-chain solution, utilizing partnerships with local farmers and distributors to source food for Austin communities and restaurant partners in order to provide the food at an affordable price point. This case study outlines the novel model and describes three key takeaways from this 2020 pilot project.