Celebrating 20 Years of Montefiore's Project Bravo Food Pantry in the Bronx

Celebrating Two Decades of Support: Project Bravo Food Pantry

Montefiore Health System proudly commemorates 20 years of its Project Bravo Food Pantry, a lifeline for the Bronx community. This initiative, funded by grants, was launched to tackle food insecurity affecting vulnerable families and individuals in the Bronx. For over two decades, the pantry has offered fresh produce and nutritious food to those in need, operating three days a week. In 2024 alone, an astounding 40,000 residents benefited from the program.

Every week, thousands of people from the Bronx access the pantry's services, many of whom are referred by community partners and Montefiore Medical Group clinics. In collaboration with organizations like Grow NYC, Food Bank of New York, and United Way, Project Bravo not only provides healthy food but also offers baby formula, household supplies such as laundry detergent, and special meals during holidays.

According to a recent study published in Pediatrics by researchers at the Children's Hospital at Montefiore, food insecurity remains a critical issue, even among families receiving assistance through programs like WIC and SNAP. The findings highlight the ongoing necessity for initiatives like Project Bravo that can directly support families nationwide.

“It has been our privilege to fill the gaps that families experience, providing not just nourishing food, but also essentials,” says Tynisha Malone, MPA, Program Director of Project Bravo. The pantry has evolved to serve various needs, now including toiletries and feminine hygiene products, generously donated by local colleges and large retail stores. For nearly 15 years, Malone, along with a dedicated team of volunteers, has ensured that participants receive special items such as Halloween treats and toys during the festive seasons.

One Bronx resident, Dwight, who has frequented the pantry for three years, shares his experience: “Project Bravo is a place I can rely on for so many resources. I get fresh and healthy ingredients for soups and casseroles, plus access to health education. The cooking and painting classes are also wonderful. Project Bravo is a source of sustenance and support in multiple ways.”

For those wishing to learn more about Project Bravo or provide support, you can contact the pantry at [email protected] or [email protected]

About Montefiore Health System

Montefiore Health System is recognized as one of New York's leading academic health systems, delivering exceptional quality and personalized care to around three million residents in the Bronx, Westchester, and the Hudson Valley. The system includes ten hospitals, among them the Children's Hospital at Montefiore and Burke Rehabilitation Hospital, along with over 200 ambulatory care sites. Montefiore's commitment to advanced research at the Albert Einstein College of Medicine significantly enhances patient care and outcomes, positioning it as a fully integrated healthcare delivery system.

For additional information, explore Montefiore's resources at www.montefioreeinstein.org. Join the conversation by following them on major social media platforms like Twitter, Instagram, LinkedIn, Facebook, and YouTube.