WILLIAMSBURG — A new food locker program has launched, offering 24/7 access to food. This initiative is a collaboration between Sentara Williamsburg Regional Medical Center, Williamsburg House of Mercy, and the Williamsburg Health Foundation.
During the kickoff event, community leaders and health officials gathered to celebrate this innovative step against food insecurity in the area. Terry Banez, CEO of the Greater Williamsburg Chamber of Commerce, highlighted the importance of supporting vulnerable populations, noting, “This collaboration truly helps our ALICE (Asset Limited, Income Constrained, Employed) community members.”
Loren Smith, Vice President of hospital operations at Sentara, shared that this program aligns with their commitment to holistic care. “Our community health assessment shows that access to food is vital for overall well-being,” he stated. “We’re exploring new ways to support this essential need.”
Amber Price, chief nursing officer at Sentara, emphasized that the idea of food lockers came from a desire to maintain privacy and dignity for those in need. “It’s so much better to discreetly pick up food rather than wait in line, especially when kids are in the car,” she explained. “These lockers really make a difference.”
Liz Buckley, Executive Director of the Williamsburg House of Mercy, noted that personal experiences can illuminate access issues. Reflecting on her realization of how much she takes food access for granted, she stated, “For many, convenience is a luxury that doesn’t exist.” Buckley also stressed the significance of letting neighbors access food on their own schedule. “Whether it’s a late-night hospital visit or a parent with a busy work life, our resources are now available 24/7.”
York County Supervisor Thomas Shepperd praised the initiative, pointing out that solutions to hunger must come from the community. “This is a meaningful step for families in need,” he remarked. “Every bit counts.”
Food insecurity is a pressing issue, with recent statistics revealing that nearly 1 in 8 Americans reports facing hunger. Innovative solutions like this food locker program aim to reduce stigma while meeting essential needs. As community members embrace this initiative, it stands as a model for how compassion and creativity can work hand-in-hand to support those struggling with food insecurity.
