The nonprofit, charitable organization known as a food bank distributes food to those who cannot afford to buy enough to avoid hunger through intermediaries such as soup kitchens and food pantries. In 1967, St. Mary’s Food Bank became the first food bank in history to start in the United States. Thousands have since been founded all across the world.
Following the global surge in food prices that began in late 2006, their numbers rapidly grew across Europe, especially after the financial crisis of 2007–2008 began to make life more difficult for those with low incomes. In a similar vein, the economic crises and inflation of the 2020s have had a significant impact on the low and even some middle-income strata.
DEVELOPMENT
The growth of food banks has been applauded by commentators who view them as examples of civic today food today engagement and compassion. Numerous academics and commentators have expressed concern that the expansion of food banks might erode political support for social services. Food banks may not always be as successful as state-run social programs, according to study.
The “front line” strategy, which involves giving food to the hungry directly, or the “warehouse” model, which involves giving food to intermediaries like soup kitchens, food pantries, and other front-line organizations, are two of the primary distinctions between food banks. In the United States, Australia, and to a lesser extent Canada, food banks usually function more as warehouses than as providers.
TAKEAWAYS
Along with ten locations in the US, it currently has two overseas. Canada network was established in 1987 and consists of 10 Provincial Associations and more than 500 local food banks. Hunger Awareness Week, Hunger Count, the Safe Food Handling program for food banks, and a study on food bank utilization in Canada are just a few of its numerous initiatives.