First Step

Welcome to First Step, a video series featuring athletes engaging the communities most affected by today’s social issues, from education and unemployment, to hunger and homelessness among LGBTQ youth. In this installment, Curtis Granderson of the New York Mets takes a first step to help people living in the “food deserts” of New York City. 

---

---

The phrase “food desert” may not mean much to most people, but it’s a common issue across America. If you look at some poor neighborhoods you may notice an abundance of liquors stores, convenience stores and beauty shops but a lack of grocery stores, markets or food stands. These areas are considered food deserts – they exist in almost every city across the Nation and are more common than you think.

As a kid, I remember missing breakfast on occasion – but thinking “lunch is coming soon”. Then, if I missed lunch, those times in between meals would feel terrible. I don’t want anyone to feel like that. That’s why my Grand Kids Foundation started the Grand Giving initiative – a month long campaign which raises funds to provide individuals who live in food deserts an opportunity to get daily meals around Thanksgiving, and all year long.

Curtis’ Grand Giving initiative is currently running until November 30th. To learn how you can support or attend one of his events in New York City or Chicago, please visit www.grandgiving.org.