UPDATE AS OF JUNE 28: Due to air quality concerns, the launch event for the new Munch truck has been rescheduled to Thursday, July 13 from 3:15–4:00pm at The River (2201 Darwin Road). All are welcome to come tour the truck and learn how it will better serve our community.
MADISON, Wis. — June 23, 2023 — The River Food Pantry is equipped to deliver more meals and fresh produce than ever before to underserved neighborhoods throughout Madison and Fitchburg with a larger, custom-built vehicle for its mobile meals program, Munch.
“Thanks to generous support from the Steven & Alexandra Cohen Foundation, TruStage Foundation, Madison Community Foundation, and private donors, Munch now has a new and improved truck to better serve local children and adults experiencing food insecurity this summer—and beyond,” said Rhonda Adams, The River’s Executive Director.
In addition to increased space, the 2023 Ford F59 Step Van features a reach-in cooler and freezer, heating cabinet, dedicated serving window, fresh produce display, digital menu board, sink, and more. The 18-foot vehicle will not only preserve food quality over longer routes, it will also provide a more comfortable space for staff and volunteers to work.
Munch launched in 2016 to help fill the gap in nutrition many children experience when schools are closed. The program has grown to serve 20 distribution locations.
“This bigger and better vehicle is the next step forward in Munch’s evolution,” Adams said. “We can’t wait to see the new ways we can support our community with this increased capacity.”
The River will host a launch event to introduce the new vehicle to Munch supporters at its northside location, 2201 Darwin Road, from 3:15–4:00pm on Thursday, July 13.
Learn more about Munch at riverfoodpantry.org/services/munch.
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About The River Food Pantry
The River is South Central Wisconsin’s busiest food pantry. Services include free groceries and freshly prepared meals for pickup or delivery, online grocery orders, mobile meals, and emergency food lockers. The River also redistributes rescued food and resources to local partners to increase access while minimizing waste. Since 2006, The River has grown to serve over 2,500 people every week in pursuit of its vision: a fully nourished community.