This project addresses the ongoing issue of food insecurity in the Lower East Side, where many families face significant barriers to accessing healthy and affordable food. Through research, surveys, and community insights, I identified gaps in pantry awareness, accessibility, and user experience. The goal of this project was to design and promote a digital solution that improves access to local food resources and supports families facing daily financial and nutritional challenges.
I designed the PILES (Pantries in Lower East Side) app as an accessible tool that connects families to nearby food pantries with accurate information. The app features a customizable profile for dietary needs and eligibility, an interactive map with real-time pantry details, and quick access to directions, hours, and contact information. These features directly address major pain points discovered in the research, ensuring that users can find reliable resources without confusion or stress.
To increase community awareness, I developed both a subway ad campaign and a social media campaign. The subway ads prioritize clarity and accessibility, using a QR code for instant app downloads during daily commutes. The social media campaign uses relatable language and humor, appealing especially to Millennials who are familiar with terms like “struggle meals.” These campaigns work together to promote the app while destigmatizing food assistance and encouraging more community engagement.
Low-Fidelity App Page Exploration
Campaign Ads
Map & Logo Sketches
My research revealed that over 220,000 households in the city are at risk of food insecurity, and many residents are unaware of nearby pantry locations or available services. Community members reported long lines, inconsistent resources, a lack of healthy options, and confusion around eligibility. Survey data showed that nearly a third of respondents did not know of a single pantry in their neighborhood. These challenges highlighted the need for a reliable, easy-to-use tool that centralizes information and simplifies access to food support.
Personas
