Food Not Cops: Nourishing Neighbors for a Safer Community
A Daily Dose of Community Care
Imagine a space where hunger is met with generosity. Every day, from 1-2 p.m., a vibrant group of Burlington residents gathers behind the Marketplace Garage on Cherry Street to serve a free buffet. This initiative, known as Food Not Cops, is more than just a meal—it’s a lifeline. Over the past five years, thousands have come together to share food, cook meals, and wash dishes, embracing a philosophy that prioritizes community over convention.
The Roots of Food Not Cops
Food Not Cops is part of the larger Food Not Bombs movement, an international effort advocating for food equity. This initiative highlights the importance of reallocating public resources—ideally intended for warfare—to address basic human needs like food and community support. The choice of location behind the parking garage was initially practical, driven by the pandemic’s need for social distancing.
A Gathering Place that Welcomes All
What started as a necessity has transformed into a community pillar. The wall behind the garage is now a known refuge where anyone in need can find nourishment. Whether members have been traveling, working, or facing incarceration, they return to this critical point for sustenance and support. Stability in our presence fosters trust and reassures those facing unpredictable challenges.
Navigating Community Dynamics
Located near the heart of downtown, this gathering spot has become invaluable for unhoused individuals. It allows for de-escalation of conflicts, as the open outdoor space facilitates easy exits while minimizing confrontations. Additionally, it’s a low-key area, often overlooked for commercial interests, allowing us to operate without pressure from more “important” matters.
Facing Challenges from Local Businesses
However, the comfort of our community haven is currently threatened. In an open letter, some local business owners express concerns over our presence, linking it to rising safety issues in the garage. This has been met with the city’s response to hire a sheriff at a staggering cost of $1,500 per week, leading many of our friends to feel unsafe approaching the buffet.
Debunking Safety Myths
Let’s set the record straight: Marketplace Garage is not a crime hotspot. According to city records, dozens of other locations experience higher instances of public safety issues. Since 2020, the garage has recorded only 126 incidents, a stark contrast to the 2,336 incidents at City Hall Park. This reveals a troubling trend where unwarranted fear drives public sentiment, often targeting those who are most vulnerable.
A Call for Compassion
The attitudes surrounding our lunch gatherings reflect a broader societal issue. Many fear homelessness; such discomfort often leads to calls for their removal rather than for solutions to housing crises. Ignoring the problem does not eliminate it. Our community needs to prioritize housing solutions, rather than simply wishing the issue away.
Offering Hope Through Food
In response to the criticisms, it’s essential to recognize the positive impact of Food Not Cops. Firstly, well-fed individuals are generally more peaceful; hunger often breeds discontent. Secondly, we understand that individuals with unmet needs may resort to theft or other survival tactics. Food Not Cops provides an alternative, preventing desperation-driven actions by offering basic needs like camping gear and toiletries.
Building Cross-Class Relationships
Our lunch gatherings create invaluable opportunities for connection. Housed and unhoused individuals share meals and stories, building a sense of solidarity. This interaction fosters understanding and promotes empathy, reminding us that all community members deserve dignity and respect.
Support the Movement
Every contribution matters. Food Not Cops operates with no paid staff, leveraging donations to procure essential items for our neighbors in need. If you can, consider supporting us in this vital work to create a more compassionate community.
Conclusion: Together, We Are Stronger
When we uplift our neighbors, we cultivate a safer environment for everyone. The mantra of Food Not Cops emphasizes the importance of community over division. Together, we can work toward eliminating hunger and creating a vibrant, inclusive Burlington. Join us at the wall, share some food, and help strengthen our community.
