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Rachel's avatar

Thank you for this write-up! I've been trying to articulate how I feel about folks posting about their virtuous efforts to donate to food pantries. I think all efforts are good, but until we address these obstacles to food access, we are just going to move on to the next initiative that feels the most actionable. Big sigh.

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Lauren H. Auer's avatar

I know :/ I want to just litter my city with little free pantries

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Lizzy's avatar

Thank you so much for this post. I also work directly with clients, and a majority of them are facing food insecurity this month. I love the ideas you put forward, including the little pantry option.

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Lauren H. Auer's avatar

Thank you for the work you do and thank you for reading !

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Birgit / Mrs.Bimako's avatar

A beautiful example of feminist therapy in action — locating the personal within the political and holding compassion without collusion. Thank you for naming the trauma of access itself, Lauren.

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Elizabeth Anne's avatar

Thank you so much for this. I’m a furloughed federal employee and disabled veteran who has struggled with some of those issues you mentioned, such as crowded places. I am also painfully aware of how much my fellow humans are struggling in these times and have a strong desire to help others. I’ve long wanted to be in service to my community, but get stuck behind my own mental roadblocks. Your article has given me food for thought and I have several ideas I’m going to pursue. It feels good to have a purpose again, and I am grateful. THANK YOU.

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Dr. Nicole Mirkin's avatar

This was such a powerful reminder that access isn’t just logistical — it’s psychological, sensory, and emotional. The ‘one less barrier’ line really hit me.

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Horses & Dragons's avatar

Such a wonderful and timely article. Thanks for focusing on this issue.... Love that the resources are sorted by type, especially "community-based solutions.

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Psicoterapia de Punta's avatar

Dear Lord, what have we come to? And all the propaganda about how people are lazy, expecting handouts, etc. What we see is trauma unfolding in real time and it is truly awful.

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Veronica Akers's avatar

Tonight I volunteered for our local soup kitchen. First time. Eye opening all around.

My situation in the past year has completely changed for the better financially. As a family of grandparents raising grandchildren, we have gone from accepting food donations to giving them. I definitely felt shame when I’d pick up food at a local give away. I worked hard all my life. I saved well, but couldn’t have planned that unexpectedly I’d take in 3 other family members to support on the retirement planned initially for one.

I don’t care where you stand politically (both sides are wrong here), but it’s criminal to shut down our government. No excuse for either side. All should be fired and replaced with real people who can’t vote for their own raises.

My mother passed away, in our home, and left us money. I really miss her. I’m so grateful.

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