What Is A Food Bank?

A food bank is a non-profit that safely stores and distributes millions of pounds of food. The food is donated from local neighbors, retailers, grocery stores, and restaurants. Food banks may also purchase food items in bulk quantities because they have the capacity in their warehouse, refrigerators, and freezers to safely store them.

The food is delivered into the communities by the food bank so that it can be distributed through agency partners, like food pantries, and the food bank's programs. Instead of distributing food directly to people, the food bank ensures that its partners have the resources they need to feed people in their community that are facing hunger.