Company Updates
Tackling Food Deserts in Columbia, SC: First Year Success and Program Expansion Plans

Many people across the country continue to face challenges accessing food because they live in food deserts – areas where affordable food options, including fresh fruits and vegetables, are hard to find. But we have the opportunity to use technology to change this. Local leaders know firsthand what their communities need and are embracing new and creative strategies – like public-private partnerships – to break down barriers to access. That’s why we partnered with Mayor Daniel Rickenmann and the City of Columbia, South Carolina, to launch the Grocery Access Pilot (GAP) program. The GAP program made it easier for participants to access the food they need, and – building on its success – we’re proud to announce that the program will continue for another year.
Using Instacart’s platform and technology, the GAP program connects residents living in Columbia’s food deserts with greater access to a broad selection of fresh and healthy food from trusted local grocers. Participants receive an Instacart+ membership and monthly Instacart Health Fresh Funds stipends to help cover the cost of online grocery and delivery.
Following the first year of the GAP program, the City of Columbia conducted a participant survey to gather feedback on their experience. The results highlight the program’s positive impact:
- 70% of respondents reported being “Very Satisfied” with Instacart overall;
- 75% indicated they’re “Very Likely” to continue participating in the GAP program; and
- 65% said they’re likely to keep using Instacart even after the program ends.
The program makes it easier for Columbia residents living in food deserts to access a wide variety of retailers, ranging from national chains to mom-and-pop stores and regional favorites through Instacart’s platform, offering them greater choice when it comes to food. Results from the program’s first year help show just how impactful programs like this can be, helping more people get the essentials they need delivered to their doors from the grocers they know, love and trust.
“Reflecting on the first year of our grocery access program, it’s evident our partnership with Instacart has helped support the food insecure residents in Columbia. Results from the first year show the GAP program made an impact, and we’re excited to support more Columbians with the extension of the program in 2025 for another 12 months. This initiative is making a tangible difference by increasing access to a wider range of the food and essentials for families, driving more business to our local retailers, and strengthening our community,” said Mayor Daniel Rickenmann of the City of Columbia, South Carolina.
We firmly believe that public-private partnerships are essential to building a future where everyone can access the food they need. Our platform can connect more than 98% of U.S. households – including 95% of those located in food deserts – with full-service grocery stores online. By collaborating with city leaders like Mayor Rickenmann, we’ve witnessed how collaborative solutions can effectively break down barriers and meet the unique needs of communities.
Combining the expertise of public sector leaders with our nationwide grocery partnerships, technology, and reach, we can help address nutrition insecurity head on. We’re excited to continue to build on this progress and expand efforts to make food more accessible nationwide. Together with cities like Columbia and leaders like Mayor Rickenmann, we’re breaking down barriers and helping create healthier communities.
To read more about the GAP program with Columbia, SC, read the press release here.
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