INDIANAPOLIS — An Indianapolis organization focused on fighting food insecurity is celebrating after reaching its fundraising goal and coming one step closer to bringing fresh, local food to Indianapolis.
Growing Places Indy says it plans to buy the bus soon that will become the "Vegetabus" - a mobile market that will help residents in food deserts
89 patrons raised $15,000, which will be matched through a grant.
"We all know that with COVID food access was a huge issue [with] a lot of people being on SNAP for the first time in their lives," Growing Places Indy Executive Director Victoria Beaty said. "The pandemic isn't over. We have roughly 200,000 people that are food insecure in Indianapolis."
The bus will have produce grown by the organization and other grocery items. Beaty says the mobile market will allow them to reach people outside of their service area.
"We know that transportation is a huge barrier in the city when it comes to food access. We really want to eliminate that and be able to be on wheels and have a mobile market," Beaty said.
The Vegetabus will be a pay what you can model in order to eliminate as many barriers as possible.
John Hay works with Growing Places Indy and sees the need firsthand.
"We need all kinds of outreach ... it's not the ultimate answer, but it's what we need right now," Hay said.
The Indiana Housing and Community Development Authority will provide a matching grant as part of its Creating Places Program.
To find out more information or donate, click here.
-
Indy restaurant owners say weather has put a damper on summer patio season
Whether it’s economic uncertainty, stormy weekends or blazing heat, summer 2025 has been tough for some in the restaurant industry.
Franklin Township Google Data Center rezoning approved, moving to full council
Commissioners passed a proposal to rezone 468 acres for a Google Data Center in Franklin Township on Wednesday. With the eight-to-one vote, the proposal moves to full council.
North side communities face increasing need for food and other resources
Food pantries across Indianapolis' north side are seeing an unprecedented demand, leading many community organizations to step up and help
Inside new Zen room at Sankofa School of Success, helping teachers recharge
Teachers at the Sankofa School of Success now have a dedicated space to unwind during the school day, thanks to a new partnership between the Fight for Life Foundation and Simon Malls.
