http://www.annabellespantry.com

I was diagnosed with Celiac Disease when I was 6 years old. Celiac Disease is an autoimmune disease that affects how my body reacts to gluten, a protein found in wheat, barley, and rye. This reaction damages my digestive track and prevents my body from absorbing necessary nutrients from the foods that I eat. Since my initial diagnosis, I have been on a gluten free diet.

When the COVID-19 pandemic started, many people lost their source of income, and a growing number of people suddenly found themselves experiencing food insecurity, including those with food allergies or sensitivities. Typically, allergy-friendly foods are more expensive than their allergen containing counterparts, adding to the financial challenge when families are confronting seemingly insurmountable challenges. I thought about the foods I often see people donating to food pantries and realized that only a small quantity of items was appropriate for individuals with food allergies and/or sensitivities. I decided to coordinate food donations that were allergy-friendly, including gluten free, dairy free, and nut free, and distribute them to food pantries.

Please visit www.annabellespantry.com for more information.