How Food Banks Help Food-Insecure Families

By Emma Wise

Introduction

A professional dental assistant, Emma Wise has a passion for the field of dentistry as well as an enthusiasm for serving her community. Understanding the positive impact of volunteering, Emma Wise has donated her time to food banks since 2012.

Food Hardship

According to the Food Research and Action Center, the food hardship rate in the United States in 2012 was 18.2 percent. A modest improvement from 2011, this number reflects the percentage of households who, within a 12-month period, doubted their ability to purchase food for themselves and their families. Also known as food-insecure individuals, these people struggle each day to determine how and where they will find their next meal.

Conclusion

Food banks strive to provide necessary sustenance for food-insecure individuals and families by extending financial support and donated food to agencies such as soup kitchens, food pantries, and senior care centers that will prepare and redistribute the food to the community. This process makes it possible for individuals and families in all areas of a county or city to have access to the food bank’s resources.