A couple of weeks ago we visited Mid-Ohio Food Bank to learn more about their operation and see their new facility. Below are a few pictures from our trip. But before we take a look, I wanted to share a study that was conducted recently that puts into perspective the amazing need that this food bank and the 11 others in Ohio are addressing.
Grove City, OH – February 2, 2010 – A landmark study released by Mid-Ohio Foodbank and Feeding America – the nation’s largest domestic hunger-relief organization – reports that more than 248,000 individuals – including 86,975 children and 17,395 seniors – receive emergency food each year through Mid-Ohio Foodbank.
These findings represent a 28 percent increase from the results reported in Hunger in America 2006. In Mid-Ohio Foodbank’s 20 county service territory, in any given week, more than 40,000 people receive emergency food assistance from a food pantry, soup kitchen, or other agency served by the Mid-Ohio Foodbank.
If you are interested, see this Columbus Dispatch article that shows that the demand for food pantries is climbing. They are seeing new faces and many pantries are showing that in some cases their numbers have doubled since 2006.
We at the Ohio Benefit Bank have noticed that with pantries as well as benefit applications , there have been many more people asking for assistance who have held jobs all their lives. When asked, "Do you know someone who..........(has lost a job or pay, needs medical insurance etc.)" there is a resounding yes. Many people take literature for a loved one, a neighbor or a coworker. All this points to the great need for supports like food assistance and we are glad that Mid-Ohio is there, as well as the other food banks, to help organize an effort for those who are in need.
Mountains of potatoes--both sweet and regular, getting ready to be distributed.
New Community Garden with cistern system for watering.
Packing Area
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