What we don’t know can also be the key to ending hunger

Trisha  lies to the food pantry but wishes she didn't have to. We understand why she feels the need to do so.

For many of our neighbors, asking for help with putting food on the table is one of the toughest things they’ll ever have to do. They may have worked all of their lives and suddenly find themselves with less income because of an illness,  a sudden need to take care of a family member, unemployment or some other unexpected event. We also know that living with hunger can also mean living with a full-time job that doesn't pay enough to make ends meet. Living with hunger can mean making tough choices while on unemployment and looking for new work.

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Many of our neighbors are entering our lines for the first time, when previously they've been the ones on the other side of the line helping out those in need. The last thing we want to do is to make them feel unwelcome or uncomfortable in their moment of crisis.

As part of our partnerships with local food pantries, we strongly encourage them to not ask clients unnecessary personal questions during the intake process.  Many Partners distribute USDA commodities through The Emergency Food Assistance Program, which requires them to ask about income eligibility (a verbal declaration is accepted) and basic information such as number of members of the household, address and name.

Our goal is to connect as many people in need to better nutrition and healthier choices. We believe that one of the best ways to break the barriers to access is by respecting our clients’ privacy and treating everyone with dignity and respect.