LAS VEGAS (KLAS) – A Las Vegas woman set out to transform her community by offering something that no one else has: free vegan food. The Las Vegas Vegan Food Bank provides assistance in the form of produce and grains.
Vegan food staples tend to be less expensive than meat, but as prices continue to rise, there is a market and a need.
Whether through personal choice or doctor’s orders, veganism is growing in popularity. need help.
“As people experience the side effects of the coronavirus and the economy, there was a greater need in the community,” said Christopher McNulty, vice president of operations.
The concept of a vegan food bank has blossomed and started to take shape at the end of 2020.
“The initial idea was mine, but the rest is a complete collaboration of all staff and volunteers,” says Mindy Portinga, founder of Las Vegas Food Bank. “Our goal was to feed the community.”
Food Bank partners with United Movement, Organized Kindness and Purple Carrot. This grassroots organization has really planted a seed.
They pack and distribute thousands of boxes of food every second and fourth Saturday of the month.
They generate community support and form bonds with each other.
Volunteer Christa Schmidt said, “It’s great to meet fellow vegans who build boxes, talk about food and recipes, and support being vegan.
Jim Larsen owns a halfway house in Las Vegas and heard about the food pantry from one of the residents.
“It’s my first time here, but I think nutrition is part of recovery, so it’s great to have quality food on offer,” Larsen said.
Food banks are working to obtain grants to increase distribution.