FEED Projects

Empire Stores lobby

FEED Projects is a social enterprise founded in 2007 with the mission of creating products that help feed the world. The organization was co-founded by Lauren Bush Lauren, a model and niece of former U.S. President George W. Bush, and Ellen Gustafson, a social entrepreneur. FEED Projects combines commercial success with philanthropic efforts, primarily focusing on hunger and malnutrition.

History

FEED Projects was established after Lauren Bush Lauren designed a bag to benefit the United Nations World Food Programme's (WFP) School Feeding program. She created the initial FEED 1 bag, which, when purchased, would feed one child in school for one year. The success of this bag led to the creation of FEED Projects as a more permanent endeavor to fight hunger on a global scale.

Mission and Impact

The primary mission of FEED Projects is to "create good products that help FEED the world." The organization achieves this by selling a variety of products, including bags, accessories, and home goods, with a set donation built into the cost of each item. These donations go directly to various programs aimed at combating hunger worldwide, with a significant focus on school meals through partnerships with organizations like the WFP and Feeding America.

Since its inception, FEED Projects has been able to provide millions of meals to children around the globe, thanks to the support of its customers and the effectiveness of its business model. The organization measures its impact by the number of meals provided, offering transparency about how purchases translate into tangible aid.

Products and Collaborations

FEED Projects offers a wide range of products designed with both style and social impact in mind. The original FEED 1 bag has expanded into a full line of products, each with a specific number indicating the number of meals or the type of aid provided with its purchase. In addition to its own product line, FEED Projects has collaborated with various brands and designers to create limited edition items, further expanding its reach and impact.

Challenges and Criticisms

While FEED Projects has been praised for its innovative approach to social entrepreneurship and its tangible impact on hunger, it has also faced challenges and criticisms. Some critics argue that the model of consumer-driven philanthropy can oversimplify complex issues like hunger and poverty. Others question the sustainability of relying on product sales for philanthropic funding. Despite these challenges, FEED Projects continues to adapt and evolve its model to maximize its positive impact.

Future Directions

Looking forward, FEED Projects aims to expand its product line, enter new markets, and forge more partnerships to increase its impact. The organization is also exploring new ways to engage with consumers and raise awareness about hunger and malnutrition, including leveraging digital platforms and social media.

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