Just wanted to throw out there the following tips on using a food pantry efficiently. Prices are rising at a ridiculous rate and people who have never had to use a food pantry before are going to be finding themselves in just that spot. When your budget or SNAP food stamps are not enough, please don't go hungry. There is lots of help out there. If you don't know where to find a food pantry, most churches in your area keep a list, all you have to do is call and ask and they can point you in the right direction, no strings attached.
Tips for Using a Food Pantry
1. Use several food banks.
Using more than one food bank (when available) is smart because you may be able to get something at one that you may not get at another. For instance, one may have a deal with a local gardener that gives them their extras. This may mean this food bank has more produce. There is nothing against the rules that says you cannot use more than one food bank to get more help. However, be aware that nearly every food bank has rules on how often you can go per month or week.
2. Show up early.
This is very important. This means you will be first in line and have a chance to get the items that are sought after and in limited quantities such as fresh produce, dairy and frozen food. You don't usually need to show up hours ahead of time but coming at least an hour before (depending on the size of your food bank and community) is usually a good idea.
3. Remember all documentation.
Many food pantries require documentation to prove who you are, and in some cases, where you live. This is not to invade your privacy, but to simply make sure people are not coming more than they are allowed or using fake names to do so. Call ahead of time to find out what documentation is needed. Usually, it's just your photo ID and a piece of mail that verifies your address.
4. Eligible for other programs?
Ask your Department of Social Services office if you are eligible for other assistance programs to supplement your household’s food supply. They can easily tell you if you can apply for WIC (Women and Infant Children), USDA Commodities or SNAP(Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program) benefits. If your family is hungry, these temporary programs can fill important gaps in getting everybody fed.
5. Think about foods offered in terms of meals.
If you are lucky and get a food pantry that offers a choice, you will get to pick your own foods out. This will allow you to think in terms of meals and fill in the gaps with your grocery budget. Plan to go the pantry before you go to the grocery store, rather than after. This way, you can piece together meals based on what you’ve already received. For instance, let's say you are given chicken thighs and a few potatoes. You could easily make this meal complete with vegetables and seasonings. For more information on including a balance of food groups in your pantry selections check out this chart.
Even if you are not able to pick your own foods, look through the box and see what can go together and fill in the gaps. This not only stretches your food budget, but it also keeps food items from going to waste that would normally not be able to be used because they don't go with anything.
6. Ask about extras.
If you have special needs for infants or special diets, the pantries may be able to assist you. Many times, they can help with diapers, baby formula, baby food, personal hygiene products, and even special diet items like gluten free or sugar free foods. Don't be afraid to ask!
7. Don't be afraid to take lots of bread.
Most food pantries get day old bread and bakery products donated to them from area grocery stores. Sometimes this is plentiful enough that there is no limit. Bread can be frozen, and it will just go to waste if no one takes it!
8. Go on different days of the week.
Depending on the food pantry, they may be open only one or two days a week or they may be open all seven days. When you have a choice, going midweek is often best as it is less crowded.
If you need ideas on how to use any of the things you get in your box, I have tons of ideas using shelf stable foods, just search shelf stable in the search box. Also, the internet is your friend, there are endless ideas, tips, how to's and videos on every food product you can imagine. If you come across something you think others could use or enjoy, feel free to share in the comments, thanks!
The above information was gleaned from the South Dakota State University Extension Website
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