Baltimore Teen Opens Innovative Gluten and Allergen-Free Food Pantry

[Baltimore, September 24, 2024] - ​​ September is Hunger Action Month, an annual campaign to inspire people to take action against hunger and to raise awareness for those facing food and nutritional insecurity in our communities.

A Baltimore teen is leading the charge by founding one of the nation's few gluten free and allergen-free pantries at GEDCO's CARES, a community-based organization in the Govans neighborhood of Baltimore. This initiative helps make essential food items more accessible and affordable for individuals with gluten-free and other dietary restrictions.

"I know how expensive my gluten free food is and I hate to think of someone being hungry because the only food available will make them sick," said pantry founder Bridget Tucker, a Baltimore high school student. "I understand the significant challenges faced by people with dietary restrictions, and the Gluten Free and Allergen-Free Pantry helps alleviate some of these burdens by getting people essential food items."

Tucker, who is gluten free due to celiac disease, has collaborated with local businesses, food suppliers, and community partners to curate a varied range of gluten free and allergen-free products. By leveraging these partnerships, she aims to create a sustainable model that can serve as an example for other food pantries seeking to address the unique needs of their communities.

According to recent data, gluten free and allergen-free foods are often priced three to four times higher than their conventional counterparts, creating a financial burden for individuals managing dietary restrictions.

The pantry is designed to cater to the diverse needs of the community, offering a wide range of products that are free from common allergens such as gluten, dairy, and nuts. This allows individuals with food sensitivities to enjoy a variety of nutritious options without the added financial burden.

"This initiative aligns with our core mission of fostering a community where no one has to choose between hunger and health," said Joseph Crawley, spokesperson for GEDCO's CARES.

The Gluten Free and Allergen-Free Pantry is open to the public and GEDCO's CARES encourages eligible community members to take advantage of the resources available. The organization is confident that this initiative will not only make a significant impact on the lives of individuals with dietary restrictions but also serve as a model for fostering inclusivity within the broader context of food assistance programs.

Andrea Tucker
401 Woodbourne Ave.
Baltimore, MD 21212

443.610.7322
contact@baltimoreglutenfree.com

GEDCO's CARES serves Baltimore families and individuals in crisis by connecting clients with resources that enable movement towards self-sufficiency. These resources include employment, food, and emergency financial assistance services. In partnership with faith-based and community organizations, GEDCO provides affordable housing, supportive services, and emergency assistance to community residents. Learn more about Gedco Cares and its programs at: https://gedco.org/what-we-do/community-services/.

This release was published on openPR.