In order to help readers better understand the crucial role that food banks and food pantries play in their communities, this post will explain the differences between the two and provide information on how to support each.
Food Bank
Food banks are charitable organizations that collect and distribute donations of food from the food industry and individuals in the community. They transport food to community meal programs, like soup kitchens, food pantries, and shelters. Food banks employ drivers to deliver food to customers in their designated areas. All food banks, no matter how far apart they may be, share a common goal: the elimination of hunger.
Food pantry
A food pantry is a facility that stores and distributes food to those in need. Over 21 million meals have been provided to nearly 110,000 children in the past year. A mobile pantry is a food bank that can travel to where the need is, such as an elderly home or a remote community. Food from mobile pantries is typically delivered in pre-packaged boxes or laid out on folding tables.
