What is a foodbank
Often run by volunteers, foodbanks help to provide emergency food and other essential supplies to individuals and families facing hardship. It’s a practical way to show care and compassion in your community.
How do foodbanks work?
Foodbanks rely on donations of non-perishable, in-date food from individuals, businesses, and community groups. Common collection points include:
- Harvest Festival events
- Workplaces
- Supermarkets
Once collected, items are checked, sorted, and packed into boxes. These boxes typically contain enough food for at least three days and are designed to be nutritionally balanced.
To identify those in need, foodbanks often work with local care professionals, such as social workers, healthcare providers, and police officers. These partners can help distribute food vouchers, which recipients exchange for food boxes.
Churches operating foodbanks
If your church is considering running a foodbank, it’s a wonderful way to serve your local community. However, before launching, it’s important to:
- Review your insurance coverage to ensure it includes all relevant risks.
- Understand the legal and operational responsibilities involved.
We’ve created a downloadable Foodbanks PDF with key questions and considerations to help guide your planning.
Want to know more?
For detailed guidance on setting up and running a foodbank, download our free resources and checklists.