Hunger is becoming a serious issue in Massachusetts. A recent study from the Greater Boston Food Bank and Mass General Brigham in the summer of 2025 found that 54% of people in Hampden County face food insecurity.
Nia Rennix, who holds degrees in business and nutrition, is addressing not just food access but the dignity associated with it. She has helped design food distribution programs in schools, hospitals, and nonprofit organizations. Her goal? To create a space where people don’t feel ashamed to seek help.
Traditionally, food pantries focus on getting food out quickly. Rennix believes we should switch our focus to how families experience these services. “I’ve talked to thousands of families,” she explains. Many are grateful, but there’s still a feeling that something is missing. Making sure there are culturally appropriate foods and a welcoming environment is key. Long lines and complicated registration processes can drastically affect trust, which is essential when families are already facing challenging situations.
Historically, food pantries would hand out pre-packed boxes that may not cater to individual dietary needs. Since the 1990s, the client choice model has grown, allowing people to select what they want. Now, Rennix argues, we need to move beyond just food access to eradicate the stigma associated with using food pantries. Many people don’t realize how close they are to needing help; those in need could be your neighbor or coworker. A poignant example she shares is of a woman who never thought she’d rely on a pantry after her husband passed away.
The desire to protect dignity has led Rennix to create HungerDash, a virtual food pantry. For a monthly fee of $25, users receive curated food shipments at home. This model reduces the stigma often felt when visiting a physical pantry.
As hunger continues to increase, addressing the social stigma around food assistance becomes essential for fostering trust and support within communities. To learn more about HungerDash, check out hungerdash.com.
