Food Access

FRESHFARM and Breadcoin Partner to Close the Kitchen Gap for Food-Insecure Neighbors

Jul. 7, 2026

Breadcoin tokens can be used to purchase prepare-to-order meals at select FRESHFARM locations

What Is the Kitchen Gap?

For people experiencing hunger, access to raw ingredients isn’t always a solution. Many lack the equipment and space needed to store and prepare food, a challenge sometimes called the “kitchen gap.” This can mean lacking a refrigerator, microwave, stove, pots, pans, and cooking utensils, as well as access to running water and basic cooking know-how.

“Some families we serve don’t have a kitchen to cook in or a place to store food. Breadcoin makes it possible to offer a hot meal — not just ingredients.”
— Congress Heights Family Strengthening Center & Breadcoin partner

FRESHFARM is partnering with Breadcoin, a Washington, DC nonprofit, to help close that gap. Breadcoin provides community-funded tokens that can be redeemed for meals at participating food businesses, giving food-insecure neighbors access to prepared food while preserving their choice and dignity. Starting July 8th, Breadcoin recipients will be able to use Breadcoins to purchase prepared foods at select FRESHFARM locations.

Working Together to Strengthen Local Food Economies

Hand holding Breadcoin tokens Beyond expanding food access, this partnership creates a new revenue stream for prepared food producers operating within the FRESHFARM network. By connecting more customers with local businesses, FRESHFARM and Breadcoin are strengthening the regional food economy while keeping nutritious meals within reach for more neighbors.

At FRESHFARM, we believe everyone deserves access to fresh, nourishing food and a say in what ends up on their plate,” said Cat Oakar, Executive Director of FRESHFARM. “Breadcoin’s mission aligns closely with our vision for a food system that is equitable, community-centered, and responsive to people’s needs. By welcoming Breadcoin at our markets, we’re expanding access to fresh, prepared foods while supporting the local entrepreneurs and small businesses that make our regional food system thrive.”

How Does Breadcoin Work at FRESHFARM Locations?

Through Breadcoin’s community distribution network, trusted organizations and community leaders distribute tokens to neighbors facing food insecurity, regardless of whether they qualify for federal nutrition benefits. Under this new partnership, starting on July 8th, recipients can use Breadcoins to purchase prepared foods at the following FRESHFARM locations:

Columbia Heights Market (Wednesday and Saturday)
Uptown Market (Saturday)
Downtown Silver Spring Market (Saturday)
Union Market District (Sunday)
Minnesota Ave Farm Stand and Friends events (last Thursday of each month)

The long-term goal is to expand Breadcoin to even more FRESHFARM markets, with the Dupont Circle market slated for later this fall. As the partnership grows, so does the vision: an equitable regional food system where no neighbor is left out.

Learn more about Breadcoin at FRESHFARM markets.