Note: please note that this profile of a policy option or program model should (a) link back to the issue overview on this topic, (b) be focused either the local, state, national, or global level, and (c) be neutrally presented, based on facts, and include footnotes for each of the items.  See the Research Guide and Information Sources to assist you.

This policy option or model program profile relates to the following issue overview(s):

• Health and Wellness; Community Food Security 

Contributor(s):

Summary    one paragraph description 

• "SHARE is a non-profit, community-based organization dedicated to moving healthy groceries at roughly a 50% discount into all homes in the DC area. We accomplish this through high-volume purchasing and thousands of volunteer hours, which strengthens the community for all." Link

Goal    short description of the policy or program goal  

• To increase access to fresh and healthy food in communities by lowering prices through bulk orders.

Cost    total policy or program cost; also include per person cost if available 

• Costs for food are entirely taken care of by the cost of boxes. However, volunteers or staff would need to put time into creating menus, ordering items, and creating/distributing boxes. 

Implementation    describe how the policy or program is implemented (esp. who, how) 

• The SHARE program makes food cheaper by buying preset food items in bulk, and packaging them into boxes each month. Boxes are ordered ahead of time and the price of the box covers the cost of the food. Families or individuals buying into the program must complete two hours of community service, and pay the price of one of three-four options each month. Selection "menus" and orders are given one month ahead of time.

Evaluation    summarize any evaluation findings that policy or program effectiveness

• This program has been successfully in existence since 1990, currently operating over 100 distribution sites. 

Status    indicate whether this policy or program has been adopted in more locations or remains a proposal 

• The DC branch of the SHARE food network program stemmed from a national organization, which also led to creation of a similar program in Philadelphia. However, the National organization seems to have discontinued its work, while these two regional programs continue to thrive. 

Point of View    quotations from those in support or opposition to this policy or program 

Contact     contact information for sponsor of this policy or program 

Bibliography    link to any additional readings or websites related to this policy or program 

• All quotes and information taken from: SHARE Website