News Summary
The Mid-South Food Bank is reducing its Mobile Pantry sites from 167 to 137 due to a significant funding shortage. This decision follows the end of federal and local COVID-19 relief funds that supported the program. The Mobile Pantry, which delivers food to communities in need, will continue operations at brick-and-mortar pantries and remains committed to serving those affected by food insecurity.
Memphis, TN – The Mid-South Food Bank has announced it will reduce the number of its Mobile Pantry sites from 167 to 137 due to a significant funding shortage. This decision comes as federal and local COVID-19 relief funds, which supported the expansion of the pantry program during the pandemic, have now ended.
The Mobile Pantry program was initiated during the COVID-19 pandemic as a way to deliver food directly to communities in need. The program expanded from a handful of sites at its inception to 167 locations at its peak, serving over 400,000 households across 31 counties. Each mobile pantry event currently helps approximately 300 households receive the food they need.
Mobile Pantry Operations
The Mid-South Food Bank utilizes refrigerated vehicles to distribute food in a drive-thru manner, making it easier for individuals to receive assistance. To access the Mobile Pantry, individuals are required to show either an ID or proof of residence in the designated county where food is being distributed.
One confirmed location for the Mobile Pantry is in Tate County at the Second Baptist Church in Coldwater, with distribution starting at 9:00 a.m. A complete list of the remaining Mobile Pantry times and locations can be found on the Mid-South Food Bank’s official website.
Funding Challenges
The decision to cut the number of mobile sites has been described as a necessary step to ensure the organization can continue to effectively manage donor dollars while continuing to serve the community. The Mid-South Food Bank’s interim President and CEO has highlighted their commitment to maintain support for those in need amid these challenging financial circumstances.
While Mobile Pantry sites are being reduced, brick-and-mortar pantries, soup kitchens, and pantry-supported deliveries will remain in operation. The food bank encourages individuals seeking assistance to visit their website to find nearby pantries that can provide the necessary support.
Background on the Mid-South Food Bank
The Mid-South Food Bank plays a critical role in addressing food insecurity in the region. Launched to combat hunger, it has developed various programs aimed at providing food resources to those most in need. The organization largely relies on donations and funds to maintain its operations, and the recent end of COVID-related relief funding has posed significant challenges.
As the Mid-South Food Bank continues to work through its funding issues, it is actively seeking new fundraising opportunities to expand its reach and support those experiencing food insecurity in the community. Individuals who wish to help or need assistance are encouraged to visit the Mid-South Food Bank’s website for more information.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
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Additional Resources
- Local Memphis
- Wikipedia: Mid-South Food Bank
- Fox 13 Memphis
- Google Search: food insecurity Memphis
- Action News 5
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Food Bank
- WREG
- Google News: Mid-South Food Bank closure
- Commercial Appeal
- Google Scholar: food banks funding challenges
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