How a UConn Senior’s Initiative is Battling Food Insecurity: A Game-Changer for the Community

A senior at UConn is tackling food insecurity on two continents. Anthony Mensah, along with his friends, founded a program that provides meals to low-income families in New Haven and Ghana.

In 2021, Anthony and his team—Akosua Asante, John Mensah, and Nee Ashitey Boateng—launched the AJANO Cooperative. Their goal is simple: to ensure everyone has access to high-quality food. “We focus on helping people access healthy proteins,” explains Mensah, who studies Economics of Sustainable Development and Management. “Having a diet limited to just carbs and unhealthy options can seriously affect life potential.”

Anthony’s journey began in Ghana. His family moved to New Haven in 2017. The idea for AJANO came when a friend from a lower-income background revealed the challenges of accessing nutritious food. This inspired Anthony to take action.

The first food drive took place in Accra, Ghana. Anthony’s team collaborated with a high school principal in a low-income area to conduct an anonymous survey. “We wanted to eliminate any stigma around asking for help,” he mentions.

AJANO’s second food drive occurred in New Haven in the summer of 2024. This one was quite a feat, partnering with three food banks to distribute an impressive 6,000 pounds of chicken and 1,000 pounds of beef. “Seeing those numbers, it was amazing. It shows how much people care,” Anthony reflects.

Looking ahead, AJANO plans to host food drives every two years, aiming to expand their reach each time. Anthony acknowledges that providing high-quality protein isn’t straightforward. “Most food banks struggle with access to meat, and what they do offer is often highly processed,” he explains.

Finding healthy options low in sodium was another hurdle. Fortunately, they connected with Ashitey Owusu, a food economist who helped them strategize the nutritional content of their distributions.

AJANO also supports young Ghanaians beyond food drives. Their “Think Deeper Writing Competition” encourages high school students in Ghana to engage critically with philosophical texts. Winners receive cash prizes.

At UConn, Anthony’s education has been instrumental. Courses like Food Policy (ARE 2260) deepened his understanding of food systems and improved his goals for AJANO. Professor Tatiana Andreyeva provided valuable insights into food bank operations, enabling Anthony to source significant food supplies.

Anthony credits his advisor, Associate Professor Nathan Fiala, for keeping his motivation high while juggling demanding coursework. “He encouraged me to continue with AJANO,” says Mensah.

Reflecting on the impact of the food drives, Anthony shares, “It’s touching to see families approach us, sometimes shy at first. But when they receive the quality meat, the relief on their faces is priceless. Knowing I’m helping someone puts everything into perspective.”

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