In 2024, the Shifa Free Clinic received a capacity building Changemaker Grant from Trident United Way, a contribution that is making a significant impact on the clinic’s food pantry operations. Funds from the grant have enabled the Shifa Free Clinic to streamline its in-house food pantry and food distribution process. This has made processes more efficient for both volunteers and staff, enabling the clinic to better serve thousands of low-income families in the community.
Since 2012, Shifa Free Clinic has been providing free medical care, health education and critical support services to uninsured and underinsured individuals and families. As the clinic’s patient base has steadily grown, so too has the demand for its food pantry services. The Changemaker Grant has enabled Shifa Free Clinic to invest in vital improvements that ensure their food items are distributed quickly and safely. These enhancements include the addition of a rolling table to transport food from trucks to the pantry, extra carts for improved organization and a step ladder to assist with storage.
Dr. Reshma Khan, Medical Director of Shifa Free Clinic, expressed her appreciation for Trident United Way’s continued partnership, including the far-reaching benefits of these improvements.
“Trident United Way has been a wonderful partner for years, so when we had the chance to apply for a capacity building Changemaker Grant, we knew it was the right move,” said Dr. Khan. “Our food pantry serves over 1,200 families each month through four essential hunger prevention programs, and we depend on volunteers to make it all possible. This grant has been crucial in helping us increase our capacity and better serve our community.”
The enhancements have not only made inventory management more effective but have also allowed the food pantry to meet the growing demand for its services. With these new tools in place, the clinic is better equipped to tackle food insecurity and support its hunger prevention initiatives, including an on-site pantry, home delivery for those who cannot visit, a child hunger prevention program and community outreach with fresh produce giveaways.
"Despite serving an increasing number of families each month, we were always able to continue our work because of our dedicated volunteers," said Dr. Khan. "However, we still needed more tools and resources to fully meet the needs of those we serve. This grant was exactly what we needed to boost our capacity.”
Dr. Khan also underscored the broader impact of Trident United Way’s support. “This grant has allowed us to do more than just improve our food pantry. It strengthens our overall mission to reduce health disparities in our community. The expanded resources we now have will directly improve the health and well-being of our patients and their families.”
Shifa Free Clinic remains committed to serving the most vulnerable members of the Tri-County region. With grant funding from Trident United Way, the clinic’s food pantry is now better equipped to meet their rising need, helping to ensure that no patient entering the clinic will leave hungry, while also reinforcing Shifa’s mission of holistic care for those in need.