Helping people get the assistance they need

Name: Krista Ostaszewski

Role at Foodshare:  As the SNAP Outreach Coordinator, Krista trains volunteers in SNAP prescreening and application assistance and schedules them at a variety of different locations throughout Hartford and Tolland county to conduct outreach. She also trains agencies in SNAP outreach and works on educating the public about the importance of SNAP.

How long with Foodshare? Four years, including her first year as an Americorps Public Allies intern

Hobbies: Going to concerts, cooking, her puppy Lola

Why I do what I do:  “I have always been passionate about working on human rights issues especially on a local level. We are the richest state in the nation and there are still people who do not have their basic human needs met! Our neighbors are hungry and it’s unacceptable! Foodshare’s work is really dedicated to using the resources within our community, state and government to ensure that no one goes hungry.”

Most recent accomplishment:  Presenting at a Feeding America national conference in Chicago on SNAP Outreach.

A personal/professional goal:  To eventually get a masters in social work

Last read: Freakonomics

The hardest thing learned at Foodshare?  “To take a deep breath! The need we face everyday can be overwhelming. The people contacting me are in difficult, delicate and sometimes emotional situations. It took time for me to learn how to handle it all!”

What has changed the most at Foodshare?  “The increase in staff! I haven’t been here very long but in my four short years we definitely have grown in size!”

What has stayed the same?  “Every staff member here, new and old, is completely dedicated to their work and Foodshare’s mission.”

If you could be, or do, anything else – what would it be?  “I would love to start a dog rescue/shelter.”

Something that few people know: “I was a vegetarian for seven years.”

What others say about Krista:  She is an amazing, talented, and dedicated young woman who cares passionately about the world around her and making it a better place for everyone!