The For All Community Events & Services program encompasses our mission in a very unique way. In 2018, another nonprofit organization wanted to either donate or discard their vending equipment and routes located in low income, high need, housing first residential buildings. These buildings house high need residents who have experienced or are experiencing an intersection of mental health, domestic violence, substance abuse, homelessness, and other traumas. The vending machine routes were originally established over a decade previous via grant funds from the United Way of King County to both create opportunities for job training for formerly homeless individuals and also to offer food access for high need, vulnerable residents within their dwelling to increase resident safety. This population may experience major safety issues in being targeted for drug sales or prostitution when accessing grocery and corner stores. Some of these folks have severe psychological issues that make it difficult to interact positively with the general public or dress themselves properly to go outside. Some of these folks are experiencing physical illnesses that make it difficult for them to leave their buildings to access food, especially in severe weather conditions. The vending machines are intended to help vulnerable residents be able to purchase treats for themselves in the safety and comfort of their homes.
When For All accepted the donation of the vending machine business, we did so knowing that if we or another nonprofit were not operating these machines in these buildings, a for profit company would take that place. We also knew that a nonprofit organization would be better suited to interact compassionately with the vulnerable residential populations at these sites. Though this opportunity was highly unexpected, we regard it as a gift and use funds generated from the vending machines to support our free food programs. We operate the business in a way that reduces resource inefficiencies and operational waste wherever possible. We were able to plan out routes throughout the city to maximize fuel efficiency. Along with vending products, we deliver free Community Food Boxes and set them up as a mobile food bank to increase nutritious food access to residents. We eliminated the purchase of plastic six pack rings, plastic drink bottles, and processed meats. We use 100% aluminum cans for drink purchases as aluminum is a highly recyclable material. We collect plastic shrink wrap and take it to local grocery stores to recycle. We offer healthier, more balanced snack choices such as nuts and protein bars, and drink choices such as sparkling waters, juices, and caffeine free options at below market rates to incentivize purchase of higher nutrition items. All revenue after cost is invested in sustaining our nonprofit free community food and enrichment programs listed above.
For All relies on volunteers and community supporters whose values align with our mission to show support through investment in our organization. A monthly financial pledge of support to For All helps to offset your carbon footprint and supports For All’s operational costs including vehicle maintenance, insurance, volunteer management, and facility rental.
When For All accepted the donation of the vending machine business, we did so knowing that if we or another nonprofit were not operating these machines in these buildings, a for profit company would take that place. We also knew that a nonprofit organization would be better suited to interact compassionately with the vulnerable residential populations at these sites. Though this opportunity was highly unexpected, we regard it as a gift and use funds generated from the vending machines to support our free food programs. We operate the business in a way that reduces resource inefficiencies and operational waste wherever possible. We were able to plan out routes throughout the city to maximize fuel efficiency. Along with vending products, we deliver free Community Food Boxes and set them up as a mobile food bank to increase nutritious food access to residents. We eliminated the purchase of plastic six pack rings, plastic drink bottles, and processed meats. We use 100% aluminum cans for drink purchases as aluminum is a highly recyclable material. We collect plastic shrink wrap and take it to local grocery stores to recycle. We offer healthier, more balanced snack choices such as nuts and protein bars, and drink choices such as sparkling waters, juices, and caffeine free options at below market rates to incentivize purchase of higher nutrition items. All revenue after cost is invested in sustaining our nonprofit free community food and enrichment programs listed above.
For All relies on volunteers and community supporters whose values align with our mission to show support through investment in our organization. A monthly financial pledge of support to For All helps to offset your carbon footprint and supports For All’s operational costs including vehicle maintenance, insurance, volunteer management, and facility rental.
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