Food pantries are not self-sustainable. They need help and contribution from the community members to continue feeding hungry people and making a bigger impact. As a part of the community, everyone should come forward to support their local food pantries and food banks. This “support” can come in many ways and forms.
If you’re more privileged who can afford food for yourself and your family, step up for those who can’t. Here are a few ways you can help your local food pantry:
- Offer them money– Food pantries usually get foods from the larger food banks. They do, however, need financial help to sustain their infrastructure and operate efficiently. There are also smaller food pantries that source their own items, this means their expenses could be relatively higher. If you are in a position whereby you can support your local food pantries financially, Do that! Even a small amount can make a big difference.
- Volunteer your time– Running food pantries, distributing items, taking care of all the operations require human capital. In addition, many food pantries also offer other resources like health screening and nutrition education. These further require more people’s involvement. If you have the time, volunteer at your local food pantry. Even a day at the weekends is a significant contribution that can help these pantries a lot.
- Get others connected to the cause– The more people and resources available, the better it is for these food pantries.So, in addition, also encourage your friends, family members, relatives, and neighbors to contribute to the cause. Encourage more people to donate money, time and connect people in their circle to this cause. You can use your social media for this.
These are three simple and straightforward ways how you can help your local food pantry.
Google “food pantry near me” and get connected to them. Or, search “community health clinic near me“; many community clinics also offer food pantry services. Find them and play your role, which is that of a caring and active community member.
