How to Take Advantage of Food Banks
- 1). Determine whether or not there is a food bank program in your area. Contact local churches or agencies such as the American Red Cross and the United Way. You can search online for local food banks through your local United Way 211 website and the Feeding America website (see Resources). You can also call the Feeding America food bank locator hotline at 800-771-2303.
- 2). Contact the food banks to determine what the exact qualifications and procedures are. Some food banks may require you to meet the federal poverty guidelines, others will not. Depending upon the food bank, you may have to schedule an interview with a food bank worker. Proof of your income and financial resources may or may not be required. Photo identification and/or proof of address may be required.
- 3). Visit the food bank to pick up your food. Depending upon the food bank, you may receive the same box that other program recipients receive. However, you some banks may allow you to pick and choose your foods based on your household needs. There will generally be limits on the amount of food you receive. For example, you may be limited to five boxed items, 10 can items and three meats.
- 4). Use the services of more than one food bank, if there are multiple food banks in your area. This can often be done without conflict, as long as the food banks are not affiliated with one another. By using multiple food banks, you are able to get more groceries for your household.
- 5). Visit an organization that cooks meals for you. There are many organizations that don't give you boxes of food to take with you but will provide free hot meals for the less fortunate in the community. These organizations are also referred to as "soup kitchens."
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