When it comes to combating hunger in our communities, the terms “food bank” and “food pantry” are often used interchangeably. However, these two play distinct roles in the fight against food insecurity. Understanding the differences between a food bank and a food pantry can help clarify how they work together to ensure that everyone has access to nutritious food.
Food Banks
A food bank is an organization that serves as a distribution center for food. There are 200 food bank partners of Feeding America across the United States, and every county in the country is covered by a food bank.
These food banks source, store, and distribute food to partner agencies, including food pantries, soup kitchens, shelters, and other community organizations. Some of the food that food banks receive is typically donated from stores, farms, food manufacturers, and food drives.
Once food is purchased, sorted, and stored at the food bank, it is then distributed out to partner agencies so they can provide the food directly to community members experiencing food insecurity. In addition, food banks may also have other programs or distributions of their own. At SMFB, we have Produce Popups, CSFP distributions, and more, where food is provided directly to community members from the food bank without an agency partner.
Food Pantries
Food pantries are local, community-based organizations that directly serve individuals and families that are facing food insecurity. Unlike food banks, which operate on a large scale, food pantries are much smaller, and often partner with food banks to receive their food essentials, which is then distributed to community members. At SMFB, we also receive non-food items, such as toiletries and hygiene products, which also get distributed to pantries and shelters.
Distribution schedules can also vary at food pantries. Some may be open throughout the week, whereas others may be open a few times a month.
Working Together
Not only does understanding the differences between the two explain how they work together to maximize their impact, but it also helps guide those who would like to contribute and make a difference, as well as guide people who are looking for food assistance.
Food banks and food pantries work together to provide hunger relief to their communities. The food banks serve as the distribution center for the fight against hunger, gathering and managing the food supply, while the pantries are the support system in our community. Overall, both types of organizations are essential to the fight against hunger.
At SMFB, we are grateful for our 378 agency distribution partners, as well as all the community members and organizations, who help us fight hunger every day.
