City of Columbia expands partnership with Instacart for 3rd year

COLUMBIA, S.C. (WOLO)– The City of Columbia is continuing to expand its partnership with Instacart to help combat food insecurity, says city officials.

City of Columbia Public Works logo

Photo: City of Columbia Public Works website

This will be the third year the city and Instacart has partnered together for the Grocery Access Pilot (GAP) program.

The concept of the program is to combat food insecurity and expand access to fresh and healthy food for residents living in Columbia’s food deserts.

Through the city-funded program, up to 110 households located in food deserts will receive a complimentary Instacart+ membership and Instacart Health Fresh Funds stipends for one year.

City officials say the program allows individuals and families living in low-income, low-food-access communities to more easily get the nutritious food and other essentials they need delivered directly to their door.

“Three years ago, we set out to use technology to bring fresh, affordable groceries directly to Columbia residents who need them most—and today, we’re seeing the real impact. Families are relying on this program to put food on the table and access healthier options,” says Mayor Daniel Rickenmann. “We’re proud to extend this partnership with Instacart for another year as we continue investing in practical, community-driven solutions to food insecurity.”

According to a city conducted survey, 79% of participants indicated they are “very likely” to continue participating in the GAP program if extended, and

78.6% said the program improved their ability to provide food for their household “a great deal”.

With the extension, participants will also benefit from additional resources, including access to an Instacart-managed customer care support line at (888) 246-7822.

To learn more about qualification requirements and how to apply, visit the GAP Program’s Strategic Initiative webpage.