Food insecurity on Long Island has nearly doubled since the onset of the pandemic. Children, seniors, and the underemployed are the most affected by these issues. Almost 60% of East End school children qualify for free or subsidized meals. Sustained food insecurity has long-term consequences – Children facing hunger have significantly higher risks of health conditions like asthma and anemia, and are nearly 40% more likely to repeat a grade in school.

Food insecurity is not just about hunger — it is about dignity and a sense of belonging. In a place of so much wealth and abundance, we know that we can do something about this problem. Hamptons Community Outreach delivers meals, fresh produce, pantry items, and other basic necessities to communities living on the margins throughout the Hamptons. We began our food outreach program in 2020, when we delivered 6,500 cooked meals and 19,500 lbs of fresh produce and groceries to people in need. Now, we deliver to over 400 households directly, on a weekly basis. Our unique mobile approach allows us to reach people who cannot access traditional food pantries because they are elderly, disabled, lack transportation, or fearful.