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. In the United States, there are over 700 food banks, and distributing food is a vital part of their mission. But there are also many other ways that food banks help people in need.

The first food bank in Europe was opened in France in 1984. 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.

Most food banks receive donated food from various sources. These could include businesses, churches, the public, and supermarkets. These donations are then sorted by volunteer food bank workers. 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. Food banks are also being affected by rising costs. Volunteers may be afraid of their safety or even be reluctant to work at a food bank. As a result, many senior citizens are delaying volunteering in these organizations, which can affect the food banks’ mission.

Food banks can increase the 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 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.

In addition to distributing food to the needy, food banks 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 offer nutrition education and screenings. Many pantries also offer back-to-school supplies.

Food banks also work closely with hospitals. They often partner with hospitals to provide nutrition education to 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.

Food banks are vital for those in need. However, the federal government plays a significant role in helping those in crisis. SNAP, formerly known as food stamps, provides assistance to over 35 million people in the US. It reaches nine-times as many people as the Feeding America network.