WILLIAM DALTON
UNITED STATES, 17
He/Him
Project: S.A.F.E – Supplying Allergy and Food Education
William always felt that having life-threatening food allergies was one of his most defining characteristics, changing the course of every aspect of his life. As daunting as food allergies were, he realized his privilege allowed him to navigate them easier than many. William thought it was unfair that those who were less privileged had to face the uncertainty of whether their next meal would cost them their weekly salary, or their life. He decided to help democratize access to safe food and food allergy education. In September 2021, William founded S.A.F.E – Supplying Allergy and Food Education, to provide allergen-friendly food and food allergy-related education to those who are food insecure. S.A.F.E. partners with food pantries to create designated “S.A.F.E. sections”, and stock those sections with allergy-safe food S.A.F.E. has garnered through various contributions. In addition, S.A.F.E distributes a monthly magazine called E.D.I.T. – Education, Discoveries, Information and Tips, to its partner pantries. What began as a local initiative in Hamilton County, Ohio has expanded to 5 partner pantries across the Greater Cincinnati area, provided 500 pounds of food to ~600 people with allergies, and distributed 300 copies of E.D.I.T.. William is also establishing partnerships with food pantries in Rhode Island, New York, Texas, Maryland, Tennessee and Georgia. He ultimately hopes to build S.A.F.E. into a nationally recognized organization at the forefront of helping those with both food allergies and food insecurity, so everyone can enjoy their meals without fear.