Hunger Facts
A recent study showed that 1 out of 8 people is going hungry. This is no surprise to The Food Bank of Manatee, which is the largest hunger prevention organization in Manatee County. In 2010, The Food Bank distributed enough food for 2 million meals.
In most cases, assistance is provided the same day a call is received. A community referral network allows The Food Bank of Manatee to serve those in need of emergency help and prevents duplication of assistance. If you or someone you know needs help, please call 211 to find a Food Bank partner agency that can assist you.
Hunger is not only reserved for third-world countries, but it is affecting millions of people in America and in our community every day.
The Food Bank by the Numbers
The Food Bank of Manatee is the largest hunger prevention organization in Manatee County and now more than ever, we need your help. The numbers below indicate just how critical it is for Food Bank of Manatee to continue its fight against hunger.
CHILDREN AND HUNGER:
In 2009 and 2010, almost 25% of the families in the Bradenton/Sarasota/Venice area reported an inability to provide enough food for their kids. During the last year, there were 1,684 homeless children in the Manatee school system, and at least 1,000 more who are not school-age or not reported. These children are most at risk for the dangers of malnutrition.
WHAT WE DO:
The Food Bank of Manatee is the primary distribution point of food for the entire county, working with nearly 100 food pantries, soup kitchens, and social service agencies to alleviate hunger. The Food Bank provided more than 8,000 Emergency Food Baskets last year for homeless children and their families who urgently need food while they find a solution to their crisis.
In 2010, The Food Bank provided 2,015 Emergency Baby Baskets, and in 2011, began a campaign specifically for the collection of baby food and other baby items as well as monetary donations.
DISTRIBUTION UPDATE:
In 2010, The Food Bank of Manatee distributed approximately 2.6 million pounds of food, the 2011 distribution is estimated to top 3.4 million pounds.
HOW YOU CAN HELP:
- Host a Food Drive or Baby Food & Formula Drive at your business or event
- Advocate the need for food assistance in Manatee County, and that The Food Bank is the primary hunger prevention organization in the area.
- Host a fund-raiser to bring in monetary contributions.
- Donations should be mailed to, or dropped off at:
The Food Bank of Manatee, 811 23rd Ave. E, Bradenton, 34208.
All contributions are tax-deductible. Businesses that want to arrange for a food collection barrel, call 941-747-FOOD (3663). For a Food Drive Kit, click here. For a flyer to add your company's name and drive dates, click here.
