EveryTable X IRC
Service Development
Team Project - 5 Members
Strategy Design
Design for Good
Asset Based Community Development
Atlanta, United States
EveryTable is a community-driven Food Aggregation and Distribution System (FADS) developed in collaboration with the International Rescue Committee in Atlanta to ensure newly resettled refugee families have access to consistent, culturally relevant and nutritious food without sacrificing other basic needs.
Challenge
The project aims to addresses the systemic challenge of food insecurity and a lack of self-sufficiency among newly resettled refugees. Refugee families carry significant unaddressed mental and physical health challenges following displacement, they often face the impossible choice between essential needs—such as paying rent or buying food. Existing food systems can be fragmented, inconsistent, and culturally mismatched, creating barriers that further isolate already vulnerable communities. In addition, food providers and nonprofits struggle with coordination, volunteer burnout and funding constraints that limit the impact of their efforts.
Solution
EveryTable addresses these challenges through a comprehensive food system and service design tailored for International Rescue Committee (IRC) Atlanta. It introduces a centralized aggregation hub supported by local farms, food banks and grocers, a coordinated volunteer network, culturally tailored meal planning, and clear stakeholder touchpoints. From a robust language guide to pitch packages for donors and partners, EveryTable helped empower IRC and its collaborators to implement a scalable, human-centered system that supports dignity, nutrition and community care—one table at a time. Key components of this solution include:
A Seven-Stage Service Blueprint: The system follows a structured journey from the initial Assessment of Needs through to Adaptation and Scaling for future growth.
Logistical Streamlining: EveryTable employs efficient sourcing, storage and distribution processes, using standardized touchpoints like branded boxes and record-keeping systems to minimize waste and ensure reliability.
Strategic Local Partnerships: The initiative prioritises collaboration with Atlanta-based resources, such as food banks, local farmers, and community organisations, to leverage existing infrastructure and avoid service duplication.
Holistic Integration: By aligning with existing programs like New Roots, the system provides agricultural training and urban gardening opportunities, enabling refugees to grow culturally familiar foods and preserve their heritage.
EveryTable serves as a scalable model to help refugees rebuild their lives with dignity and hope while strengthening the local food ecosystem. It supports families navigating complex transitions while building long-term food security rooted in partnership, cultural respect and resilience.
