Why our libraries should double as food banks
When the COVID-19 pandemic exacerbated food insecurity, many community centers like libraries, museums, and sports fields began doubling as food pantry distribution sites. University of North Carolina researcher Noah Lenstra studies the relationship between libraries and food security and pinpoints Read More...
Food banks apply behavioral economics to promote choice and healthy eating
This year, food banks and pantries around the world were stretched thin by the pandemic. They were and still are an essential resource for families in need, especially for households that were gravely impacted by Covid-19. Estimates indicate that the demand for these nonprofit services in the Read More...
The Optimist View: Empowerment, skills training, and the fight to eradicate hunger
“Hunger is not an issue of charity. It is an issue of justice.” - Jacques Diou By Amelia Buckley Right now, 80 percent of food banks in the US are serving more people than they were at the same time last year. The pandemic has exacerbated the need for immediate food relief, but it has Read More...
How groups of gleaners are bridging the gap between farms and the food insecure
Whether it was stopping on the side of the road to pick wild plums or gathering apples from a neighborhood tree, most of us have gleaned at least once in our lives. Now, this practice of gathering leftover produce throughout the community is finding new purpose as a source of food for those in need Read More...
An app for sports fans is now helping food banks feed the hungry
If you’re going to an NFL game and want to know where to park or where to find concessions, Agustin Gonzalez’s company Paranoid Fan can find those points of interest in real-time. If you want to stay in your seat and have a hot dog delivered to you, Paranoid Fan can make that happen too. It Read More...
State and federal governments are buying food to donate to food banks
As more and more Americans apply for unemployment benefits and food stamps, the US agricultural industry is simultaneously destroying the largest amount of food since the Great Depression. A couple weeks ago we discussed how Feeding America is advocating for a voucher program to connect Read More...
Publix is buying excess food from farmers and donating it to food banks
The coronavirus has been especially hard for farmers around the country. With schools, restaurants, and other institutions closed due to the coronavirus pandemic, farmers have been forced to dump milk and waste fresh produce. Fortunately, there are organizations around like supermarket chain Publix Read More...
California food bank meets increasing needs with drive-through pantries
Food banks are experiencing increased demand in the face of COVID-19. Dedicated volunteers are working hard to bring supplies to those in need. One food pantry in Ventura County is opening up drive-through sites to connect residents with food assistance safely and efficiently. Food Share, Read More...