SINT MAARTEN (GREAT BAY) - The Freegan Food Foundation, known for its community-based Freegan Food Market and family coaching program, has announced that one of its long-term sponsors is no longer able to continue their support.
The decision, linked to rising operational costs following new U.S. trade tariffs, will have a significant and severe impact on the foundation’s ability to maintain its current level of service.
“This is a debilitating setback for us,” said Joost de Jong, Managing Director of the Freegan Food Foundation. “We are doing everything we can — reaching out to new partners, local businesses, and donors — but we don’t yet know if it will be enough to sustain all of our programs into 2026.”
For many years, Freegan Food Foundation has served as a vital community and government partner in reducing food insecurity on St. Maarten. Through its Freegan Food Market, families living in poverty are given the dignity of choice through its client-choice grocery program.
The foundation also offers personal coaching and training designed to help individuals build skills, independence, and long-term stability. Each month, hundreds of households rely on these programs for access to nutritious food and pathways toward greater self-reliance.
“When families can put food on the table and start to rebuild their lives, the entire island benefits,” said Joost. “This is about more than groceries — it’s about hope, self-worth and belonging.”
The loss of this sponsor not only affects daily operations but also impacts the foundation’s ability both to secure matching funds and also to prepare its 2026 budget. To continue its mission, the Freegan Food Foundation is calling on the St. Maarten community – businesses, organizations and individuals alike – to step forward as donors, partners or volunteers — to keep this essential service alive.
A Call to Action: One Island, One Goal
“We’ve seen what this community can achieve when it comes together,” said Joost. “Now we need that spirit once again. Let’s not allow something this important to fade away.”
Those wishing to support the Freegan Food Foundation can contact the organization at info@freeganfoodfoundation.com or +1 (721) 580 0198.
About Freegan Food Foundation
Freegan Food Foundation is a St. Maarten-based nonprofit organization dedicated to strengthening families through food security, personal coaching and empowerment. Its innovative Freegan Food Market offers a client-choice food bank model that promotes dignity and choice while helping families access nutritious food and build long-term stability and confidence.
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