Food banks are charitable non-profit organizations that distribute food to those in need. Although they distribute food through intermediaries such as soup kitchens or food pantries,some of them 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.
The first food bank in Europe was opened in France in 1984. Food banks have gained popularity throughout continental Europe since then. According to Professor Jon May from Queen Mary University and Independent Food Aid Network,the number food banks has increased rapidly over the past five years. While the role of food banks is vital,they often have a difficult time providing nutritious,well-balanced food.
Most food banks receive donated food from various sources. These can include the public,businesses,churches,and supermarkets. These donations are then sorted by volunteer food bank workers. Once the donated food is processed,food banks give out emergency food parcels to those in need. 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. Food banks are also being affected by rising costs. Volunteers might be hesitant to volunteer at a food bank because of concerns about their safety. As a result,many senior citizens are delaying volunteering in these organizations,which can affect the food banks’ mission.
Food banks can increase nutritional value of the food they distribute. Food banks can benefit from partnering up with local farmers,even though they may be reluctant to adhere to strict nutrition standards. These farmers can support local farmers and help food banks increase their local food supply. A recent survey of 137 food banks found that only 39 percent had an organizational nutrition policy.
In addition to distributing food to the needy,food banks also run food pantries. Food pantries can be either mobile distributions or permanent and are often the only source of healthy food in a community. 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 work with hospitals to provide nutrition education for patients. Community benefit grants can also be used to support food pantries. These grants allow food banks to purchase and store fresh food for distribution in the local community. Food banks can also be assisted by hospitals in establishing healthy food sourcing programs through partnerships with local farmers.
While food banks are essential for people in need,the federal government has a major role in helping those in need. 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.