Central Square is a thriving area with universities, tech companies, and a diverse and lively population. Within this population, 1 in 8 residents experiences food insecurity (meaning: not having access to enough food to meet one's needs). 

In 2021, the local Health Department and CEOC set out to improve operations of the Cambridge Food Pantry Network, which currently includes seven pantries that serve several thousand residents annually. One of those food pantries is Central Square, located next to City Hall. It can be seen experiencing long lines on the days when it's open, and often there is difficulty keeping up with demand.

Food pantries are just one way of addressing food insecurity. In this studio, you will be challenged to develop novel ideas and systems for food exchange in Central Square that aim to reduce food insecurity. 

What can we build that will allow Cambridge residents to freely access food in a dignified and even joyful way? A vertical farm on a bus shelter? A canned food mosaic art piece? A swing that operates a juice dispenser? Let's explore the possibilities in this short, action-packed studio!