Food banks are non-profit charitable organizations that distribute food to people in need. They usually distribute through intermediaries, such as soup kitchens and food pantries, but some operate directly. There are more than 700 food banks in the United States. Their mission is to distribute food. Food banks can also help people in need in many other ways.
In 1984, France opened the first European food bank. Since then, food banks have grown in popularity across continental Europe. According to Professor Jon May of Queen Mary University and the Independent Food Aid Network, the number of food banks has increased rapidly in the last five years. Food banks are vital but often struggle to provide nutritious, balanced food.
Many food banks receive food donated from many sources. These could include businesses, churches, the public, and supermarkets. Volunteer food bank workers sort the donations. Food banks distribute emergency food parcels to people in need after the food has been processed. These parcels contain three days worth of nutritious, non-perishable food.
Food banks have always had to feed the hungry. But the COVID-19 pandemic has made it more difficult. Increasing costs are also hampering the work of food banks. Volunteers might be hesitant to volunteer at a food bank because of concerns about their safety. Many seniors are putting off volunteering at these organizations to avoid compromising the mission of food banks.
Food banks can increase nutritional value of the food they distribute. While many food banks are wary of adopting strict nutrition standards, they can benefit from partnering with local farmers. These farmers can help food banks increase their local food supply and support local farmers. A recent survey of 137 food bank volunteers revealed that only 39% had a nutrition policy.
Food banks distribute food to the poor, but they also run food pantries. Whether they are mobile distributions or permanent locations, food pantries are often the only free source of nutritious food in a neighborhood. These agencies also offer nutrition education and health screenings. Some pantries also provide back-to-school supplies.
Hospitals also have food banks that work closely with them. They often partner with hospitals to provide nutrition education to patients. Community benefit grants can also be used to support food pantries. These grants help food banks purchase and store fresh foods for distribution in the community. Hospitals can also help food banks establish healthy food sourcing programs by partnering with local farmers.
Food banks are vital for those in need. However, the federal government plays a significant role in helping those in crisis. SNAP, formerly known under the name food stamps, provides assistance for more than 35 million Americans. It reaches nine times as many people than the Feeding America network.