Columbia Grocery Delivery Program Extended for Low-Income

Columbia will continue its partnership with Instacart for a third year, extending free grocery delivery to residents in food deserts across the city.

Mayor Daniel Rickenmann announced the extension of the Grocery Access Pilot program on April 20. The city funds up to 110 households with complimentary Instacart+ memberships and monthly stipends for delivery and fresh produce.

Participants receive free delivery on orders over $10 and monthly funds for fruits and vegetables. The program targets low-income neighborhoods lacking nearby grocery stores.

A city survey found 79 percent of participants said they would continue using the program, and 6 percent reported the service improved their ability to feed their households "a great deal."

Casey Aden-Wansbury, Instacart's vice president of global public policy, said the Columbia program has become a national model. Washington, D.C. and other cities have launched similar initiatives based on Columbia's approach.

Current participants who qualify will continue receiving benefits. Seventy spots remain available for new applicants. Residents can apply through the city's GAP Program Strategic Initiative webpage or call the dedicated customer support line at (888) 246-7822.