A recent survey conducted by Feeding America found that 75% of food banks reported an increase in the number of people served in February 2024 compared with the previous year. The rising need is driven by an increased cost of living and a safety net that is too small. Amid this reality, the charitable food system is striving to meet and sustain the high demand for assistance.
Fortunately, there are many generous people who want to help end hunger and food insecurity. And there are multiple ways to provide that help.
What is the Difference Between a Food Bank and a Food Pantry?
To begin, it’s important to distinguish between a food bank and a food pantry. A food bank is a warehouse and distribution center where food is solicited, received, inventoried, and then distributed to local pantries and soup kitchens. A food pantry is a charity that distributes food and grocery products directly to those in need.
For example, the Greater Chicago Food Depository is a food bank. As such, they don’t take food donations directly from the public. However, you can check with your local food pantry to learn how to donate food or other items, such as personal care items, hygiene products, diapers, and formula.
Donate to a Food Bank Near Me
If you want to donate to a food bank like the Greater Chicago Food Depository, there are multiple ways that you can give, including:
- Donate money at a food bank’s website. This can be a one-time donation or you can schedule a recurring donation every month to have an impact on the ongoing need.
- See if your employer has a donation matching program. Many employers will match or offer to add a percentage to their employees' cash donations to a local food bank.
- Volunteer your time packing and sorting. Food banks count on volunteers to sort and pack food for distribution to food pantries, soup kitchens, and shelters. You can volunteer individually or organize a group volunteer effort.
- Help with food distribution. Once sorted and packed, food banks need to deliver food to their partners for distribution. Volunteers can help with this effort.
- Host a fundraising event. Organizing a fundraising event can greatly increase the amount of financial donations made to a food bank.
- Volunteer for holiday food drives. The need for food assistance during the holidays usually increases. As a holiday food drive volunteer, you can help collect non-perishable food items in your community, at your church, your place of business, or your school to be distributed to pantries, soup kitchens, and other organizations that help those in need.
What to Donate to a Food Pantry
If you want to help your local food pantry directly, you can do so in many of the same ways as those listed above. You can also donate non-perishable food. The best foods to donate to a food pantry include:
- Canned foods such as fruits, vegetables, beans, and soup
- Pasta and rice
- Peanut and nut butters
- Olive oil, salt, pepper, dried herbs and spices
- Muffin, pancake, and bread baking mixes
- Instant soup or noodles
- Baby formula
- Bread
How Do I Find My Local Food Bank?
You can get started giving to those in need in your community today. Simply Google “food bank near me” or go to the Feeding America website to find a food bank, food pantry, or meal program in your area.
If you’re in need of food assistance, you can locate a food pantry near you along with other resources and support.
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