Shopping at a Food Pantry: A Kosher Food Pantry Haul/ Info about Food Banks In Your Area

[@carolynek1875]

What sweet and wonderful ladies.. God bless you for helping those who are struggling!!

[@agodlyhome]

A senior man in my community would go to the food cupboard after they had served everyone that day. Then he would put all the leftover perishables on the back of his pickup and bring it door to door because he knew we all could use it and would be ashamed to ask. It was such a blessing to all of us at that time. He would remind each family to take as much as they could use because if they didn't it would just spoil. Years later my family donated to a local food cupboard and volunteered our time there. I enjoyed it so much!

[@MoneySmartFamily]

What a great story, thanks for sharing!

[@Presentationsbycrystal]

We just moved where we live last year. Then we found a food bank around the corner from us. What a blessing.

[@yvonnewallace7567]

This is the most informative and sensible video on KZbin I have ever seen and had been presented with genuine sensitivity. I always thought maybe it’d be nice if there were recipes available at a pantry to give someone an idea of how to use some of the vegetables they may be unfamiliar with. The availability of the prepared meals was a wonderful idea. I was a cook in a nursing facility years ago. It was stressed that food is “medicine”. Nothing is truer than that. They loved the French toast I made because I added vanilla and cinnamon to the batter. Not only tasted good but it was a great aroma for them to “work up” an appetite as they were getting ready to start their day. Great video, pantry and staff members.

[@MoneySmartFamily]

Thank you Yvonne! Recipes galore are available on Pinterest. Yes, basic recipes handed out is a great idea!

[@Deviant123]

Currently became homeless and lost my job but still going to school. They have a food bank there. It's a new program they just started. I have yet to gather the courage to go in but i feel super thankful for the school for even offering this.

[@MoneySmartFamily]

Jim - we're pulling for you. We know it's hard to do, but most of the food banks we've visited and heard of are full of caring people who want to help and encourage.

[@floridakidactor252]

There is nothing embarrassing about needing help.

[@kimcissell1905]

Go. Everyone falls on hard times at some point.

[@celicobain8270]

There is nothing wrong needing help. There are tons of other students that need help as you’ll see. You’re in school and thats a big deal. Please don’t feel shitty about it because eating is necessary for studies and I know it will lessen your stress a whole lot. You’re not alone and those people LOVE to help nurturing others lives.. mmkay??

[@stacycarter8980]

I just read all the comments and was happy to see many that were positive. For the people who cannot or will not go to food pantry, respect the kindness that keeps them open,the thought behind them and those who volunteered to work them for those who use them.

[@MoneySmartFamily]

Thank you Stacy, well said!

[@didine256]

This video shows that you deeply care for others 🙏

[@MoneySmartFamily]

Thank you!

[@camillecali2]

There is a food bank in my area that does not ask for ID. I love that about it. You still need to fill out your name and address but they trust you and you do not have to show ID. They give out premade bags and then you have to go through it. Sometimes you give back what you can't eat and then you can ask for something more inline of what works for your health needs. I wish ours was more like a pantry where you pick and choose instead of just premade bags but for the homeless it is great that they don't require ID. I notice that a lot of homeless people do not have ID.

[@MoneySmartFamily]

Sammy - it's amazing how different each food bank is. Thanks for sharing about yours.

[@KeepOnPushingNeverGiveUp]

Thank you for showing this. I was so scared to go to a food pantry but was in desperate need. I finally went and I have never felt better. They made me feel so welcomed. I now can proudly share my experience with others. Thank you

[@MoneySmartFamily]

Happy to hear this!

[@camillecali2]

I was very embarrassed the first few times I went. I wore and hat and sunglasses. Now they know me and I know them. No one ever has made me feel bad for asking for help. I go to the one food bank that doesnt ask much more than this food bank. I am so grateful for the help. It was an unexpected health crisis that brought me to seek help from the very place I used to volunteer

[@MoneySmartFamily]

Sammy - Thanks for sharing your story. You're so brave. We're glad that you were treated with love and respect.

[@judya.shroads8245]

We only have food pantries. They ask what you don't like first. Then you get what they bag up for you. They are very nice ppl that volunteer. Love your channel.

[@MoneySmartFamily]

Thank you Judy, this is true for many of the food pantries and how they work.

[@k.w.1459]

I volunteered last night at my local pantry. I planned to spend 2 hours and ended up working 5. My advice for those donating their time would be, know your physical limitations. I'm out of shape and don't regularly exercise. I knew I'd feel the 5 hours of lifting, packing, bagging, etc, but it was my hands that pained me most at night. I bagged over 1300 different products, and made nearly 300 packages in that time (with one other helper). I also want to point out that if you donate food, please consider donating something more substantial than Jello or marshmallows. Because it's the holidays during Covid, I realize many people will want treats, but I saw a lot of high-sugar based products. Also don't donate dented cans - it can cause botulism. They will get tossed. Our pantry used to be a come and pick what you like as you "shop," but b/c of Covid, we are now serving our community by pre-bagging for our guests, so you may get items you don't like or eat. Please donate them back or pass along to a friend or family member. I hate to see the food go to waste.

[@MoneySmartFamily]

Thank you for sharing all your thoughts KW!

[@alanbirkner1958]

We contribute to 3 food banks, my son runs a marathon and raises over $1000 every year for the Greater Chicago Food Depository. If you need food, please get food. Tina, Al's wife

[@debbiekrause4370]

I volunteered several years at my church food pantry. I gained so much from the experience especially an appreciation for the people who volunteered and especially the clients who shopped at the food pantry.

[@MoneySmartFamily]

Yes, Debbie, it is a cool thing to volunteer, and a great way to have awareness when you serve!

[@vivi2873]

I think this video will help people who haven’t visited the food bank because of embarrassment. It is very humbling to have to ask for and get help. I live in Canada and you have to provide lots of ‘proof’ that you actually need the food. Unless you find a smaller food bank run by a church. I myself have never been to a food bank even though there have been times where I really needed it. But embarrassment kept me from going

[@MoneySmartFamily]

Thank you Viv!

[@bayouprepperlady9637]

They are very helpful our church brings in food from the parish food bank and we bag and give it out, so much need

[@MoneySmartFamily]

Agreed!

[@debbieframpton3857]

I've helped at a church food pantry for 7 years we push a cart and walk the guests through and they let us know if they want something or not that way there is no waste if they will not use something they get to pick out their own canned goods fruits vegetables cereals baked goods and even meat. We have seven freezers of meat so they can usually pick out as much as they want the only time we had to limit was when the covid first started in 2020 and we were not getting much meat donations which most of that comes from Walmart Kroger, and Midwest Food Bank. The pantry has held weekly but you are only allowed to come two times a month but also in my town of 38,000 people we have about 10 pantries most of those are church- based.

[@MoneySmartFamily]

This warms my heart to hear about your town!

[@MsAngelaLeigh]

I wish we had a food bank like this. We have to provide info, bills, etc. if they approve you then you can only get food once every three months.

[@celicobain8270]

Use google. I’m sure there are plenty & even churches that won’t make it a hassle or make it feel like it’s impossible to get nurtured.

[@carolgorton5615]

Pantries have regulation's too. Like asking clients for I'd , address, no po box and number in family. Some are clients choice and they are not a grocery store but do the best they can with resources available. And it is open to all. Everyone has at some point been in need of help.

[@MoneySmartFamily]

Good words Carol!

[@DelorisGray-yt5bz]

It's very nice to meet people that are in need you don't know when your day is coming r you get laid off from work r something else can happen i work at a food bank in sc i enjoy helping others out

[@stephanieburrell4200]

Thank you for this informative video. My son and I had to go to a food pantry for help at Thanksgiving. I just found out that they are helping us at Christmas too. I'm so very thankful for the help.

[@MoneySmartFamily]

We're glad, no one needs to go hungry in America!

[@kristinesharp6286]

I think this is the trend now, for people to walk through with the knowing they can pick 1 if this kind of item and two or three of that kind of item. I wish people knew more about pantries. Less payday loans would be taken out. Those things are traps.

[@MoneySmartFamily]

You are correct Kris, payday loans and title loans are horrible. Not all pantries let you choose, but this one does. Even if they give you a set amount of food, it's a good excuse to get creative and cook or prepare some new foods!

[@chileanzombie42]

I didn’t even think of this .That’s wonderful .

[@maryannsuldhan]

Wooow hope our country phillipines have this food bank to help people like us who's in need

[@OsagieGuobadia]

There are different types of Food Pantry in parts of the United States. Good video, MoneySmartfamily! : )

[@MoneySmartFamily]

Yes! Thank you!

[@zoombinibaby8654]

I've been only able to eat one meal a day for 2 months now, just got food assistance denied for the next month as well because they didn't send me the paperwork I needed to have my employer fill out so I had my employer write a statement, which got me immediately denied. I've been really anxious about going to the food bank because I didn't know what it was like. Thank you for posting this and making me feel more comfortable about going to a local food bank.

[@LadyWeasel]

I started going to a food bank a month ago. It's once per week and it's been so helpful! They even had cat food, one time.

[@JenninKanata]

I volunteer at the Kanata food cupboard here in Kanata Ontario Canada. our food cupboard is similar to this food pantry as according to your family size you shot the shells and you get basically a full grocery cart of food. We don't have as much fresh food. but a family of one or two will get one dairy one vegetable one fruit one meat or eggs. A family of four gets 2 dairy 2 vegetables 2 fruit and I think 2 proteins. and you got the food for 3 to 5 days some things last longer like 10 lb of potatoes will last much longer. you can access the Kanata food cupboard once every 30 days you have to live in the area and show ID one with your picture and one with your address to prove that you live in the area and that's about it. You have to call ahead of time and make an appointment so they can put you in the shop that way you don't have to stand in long lines.

[@MoneySmartFamily]

This is wonderful Jenn!

[@jsma5503]

Very informative, the lady running it seemed so nice

[@floridakidactor252]

You must have wings under your shirt! God bless you! I learned a lot!

[@MoneySmartFamily]

Thank you!

[@marthamares6798]

There are mobile food pantries here in Phoenix area also. Through St. Mary's Food Bank. A semi truck comes with mostly fruits and veggies (variety and ammounts vary) and some other items (mostly bread) on certain times of the month. They set up farmer's market style. All you need is to sign a statement that you need the help and provide name, zip code and how many ppl in your family. We are a one income household living in a low income area of Phoenix. Once a month (in fact tomorrow) they have one a couple blocks from here at a community center. I have been going for the last couple months. Will be there tomorrow. Last month they had enough for me to distribute to five families including myself and an elderly aunt who has no income and pretty much home bound. The month before that, not so much but anything is appreciated.

[@MoneySmartFamily]

Thanks for sharing Martha, we didn't know about this!

[@MaMaVinnova]

We live in Northern AZ and St. Mary's comes up here too, 3 different locations per month in just our small town/surrounding area. They also bring senior boxes to distribute. We are in a food desert and I read a statistic that the median family income for our area is $10,000 a year. It is pretty sad. We distribute at the volunteer fire dept. the second Friday of the month. I have volunteered with my oldest, it's a lot of fun! We do get a lot of produce that doesn't last long but chickens, a freezer and a dehydrator come in handy! St. Mary's is wonderful.

[@sunset6010]

MSF, what a beautiful, warm idea for a video !

[@MoneySmartFamily]

Thank you

[@denisedurham9385]

I love that this food pantry is Kosher! They are much needed!

[@MoneySmartFamily]

Yes, it is a pretty cool niche!

[@MelissaCoup]

Great work you are all doing, good for you. We need more like you. I have a few questions....what if someone doesn't have a residence to show you or wants to keep it private? We have domestic violence victims and others who are already ashamed to be there. Many don't want to disclose their name. I'd hope you'd just write down fake names instead, if needed. Don't admit it here of course. We do not do this at our food banks in our County, people just come in and lay low getting what they need. No need to prove you need it via your name or address, nothing. Just show up

[@MissHollysLilHomestead]

you can go there once a week? that's awesome, here in central N.Y. you can only go once a month

[@MoneySmartFamily]

All the food pantries have different requirements. The goal is to not use them long term, but to use them during a financial crisis. It's best to have a vision for how to improve our financial lives, no matter what our situation!

[@judyteague9694]

At my church in VA, once a month and you must live within a certain area.

[@leonardvancottjr.2102]

How about a food pantry in that partners with The Northeast Regional Food Bank? A Friar whom partners with ( TNRFB) and receives two shipments per each week allows a family or individual to visit on the same day, one visit per each week.They ask for an ID on the first visit, and for the recipient to sign a book each time they visit one visit per each seven days. This arrangement does not request " proof of income" or that an income requirement is met.The very first visit is for sign up only, a specific day of week is set up and on that day, same day per week the food and grocery benefit happens.

[@alinewright1093]

It was wonderful to see thick it. My father had to use it or choke.

[@MoneySmartFamily]

Thanks - don't know exactly what you liked in the video, but thanks for watching.

[@s1234pro]

When I go to the food pantry near me to donate I ask what is it that they need the most at that moment. Then I shop and donate that particular item.

[@jillygirl2024]

I am grateful to my local Foodbank as I am low income , looking for a job and struggling they have been kind and helpful

[@MoneySmartFamily]

I assume they all are. There are some very caring people that work in those places.

[@lindadobranetski6302]

Jilly Girl If you have a Pilot truck stop put in an application online we are hiring all the time, we pay above minimum wage plus benifits.

[@jillygirl2024]

Thank you for the information but there is not one in Maine. After I posted this, I was offered and accepted a job to begin @ the end of this month and which pays well above minimum wage

[@ledzepcleo]

Thank you very much for making this video

[@MoneySmartFamily]

Our pleasure!

[@bethmerryfield7186]

I go to Just Food in lawrence kansas twice a month. Great experience.

[@MoneySmartFamily]

Glad they can help you. Make sure you give back as soon as you are able!

[@majormana1]

the biggest problem me is getting stuff back because i don't drive i know where it is i can get to it but yeah because food pantry here does monthly pantry vs weekly. it is what it is.

[@michellesunshinestar]

I also volunteer for a small pantry to give back.

[@MoneySmartFamily]

Way to go Michelle - we need more people like you in the world!

[@letgo8118]

I remember going to visit a friend. I said why is there food in the hallway. She said the lady and her family all go to the food bank. They take out the pasta and put the rest in the garbage.

[@MoneySmartFamily]

Wow, this is so sad. They could tell the food bank that they only want the pasta, and volunteers would give that to them. Doesn't sound like a very healthy diet to us.

[@letgo8118]

@@MoneySmartFamily I believe when you do things that hurt someone else. You will get what you deserve.

[@esthers9140]

I think the selling the kosher meats at a discounted price really are a big help for those families that eat kosher. I really enjoyed this video I followed your family for years I hope you continue to make more.

[@MoneySmartFamily]

Thank you Esther!

[@patriciabates2861]

I ve used them before. Now I’m home bound it’s hard to find a pantry like that one!

[@MoneySmartFamily]

Patricia, don't forget things like "Meals on Wheels". This food bank delivers to folks that can't get to them. Maybe there are other food pantries that do the same thing. You will have to check out resources in your area.

[@EricMeatlikeaking]

i have gone to the food bank before when i am poor. i'm skinny and poor so i went to the free grocery store

[@MoneySmartFamily]

Eric - hope you won't stay poor - you're smart and watching vidoes can really help you learn new ways to live.

[@helenmurphy3143]

GOOD TO KNOW

[@MoneySmartFamily]

Glad it was helpful.

[@janinearvayo909]

There Never out of food because just like st Mary's food bank they are given money to Run food banks to Feed People

[@MoneySmartFamily]

This food bank does rely on donations, but those amounts are down right now. There are never enough monetary givers to meet all the needs that folks have.

[@fireluvr]

She’s awsome❤

[@MoneySmartFamily]

Yup she is!

[@Mimzarooni]

So very interesting! Thank you 😊

[@MoneySmartFamily]

No, thank you for watching.

[@hellobot67]

I work at a food bank. I'm looking at this to better help my food bank at my church🏦

[@MoneySmartFamily]

You go girl!

[@annetteslife]

There are those who choose not to go to a food bank because to them it is degrading and embarrassing

[@MoneySmartFamily]

That is correct Annette M. but it does not need to be this way.

[@annetteslife]

@@MoneySmartFamily exactly

[@stephanieharris9210]

In any of our Food Pantrys there has never been Gluten Free stuff. Which makes it very difficult to go to one. As iv got Celiac Dieses.

[@MoneySmartFamily]

We are kind of surprised by this. There are so many gluten free foods. Focus on those such as potatoes, sweet potatoes, rice, corn etc. There are so much more than foods with wheat products.

[@misssummersalt]

Whoa whoa whoa HOLD UP... Woman, did you just say your name is Annette ECONOMidas?!? If so, OF COURSE YOU KNOW HOW TO SAVE MONEY! 🤑🤩

[@Hazel_aka.cadie08]

our church is starting one

[@Sporedom1]

Where?

[@lindadobranetski6302]

WOW you said people can go weekly that blows my mind, in my area you can go once every three months, some once a month and none offer meat, nor any of the stuff your pantry offers. We do not get veggies, nor milk or eggs.

[@MoneySmartFamily]

Linda, each food bank has different rules. The kosher one is small for now. If it grows, they may have to put limits on time there. Most others have limits. This pantry does not offer meat, it sells kosher meat which is very expensive to buy. Glad you watched!

[@laurelsnyder1855]

awesome video and it was very informative to help people who are in need.

[@MoneySmartFamily]

Thank you Laurel!

[@mage7603]

This video has been quite helpful. I have a lot of food allergies and so I’ve always assumed food banks wouldn’t cater to such things. Even cooler that there is a full kosher food bank!

[@MoneySmartFamily]

Maggie, you would be very pleased with what is donated to food banks, it's awesome!

[@katemill3632]

Most Don't

[@jessieayala2970]

Love you guys good information

[@MoneySmartFamily]

Thank you Jessie!

[@blesslavendercopeland4118]

Like going to the food bank I grow up going to the food bank

[@valeriechapman6056]

I have a hard time finding a food bank open when I'm not working

[@Ibird4]

I help make food for our pantry

[@MoneySmartFamily]

This is wonderful Ina!

[@michellesunshinestar]

It's the end of the month, that's usually when everybody goes to the food pantries. I literally found one one block away, it's brand new. I heard about it from people in my building. So I went looking for it. It's really small, but if you needed salad, milk, eggs, bread, some produce, and canned goods, you would not starve. Where I live there is a community college, so it's convenient, and they said you can come as often as you want, with your ID, it's a community pantry, I think it's connected with the community college though. I didn't carry an extra bag, so I mainly got salad and kidney beans, and dried plums, and peanut butter, they had boxes to carry the stuff. I'm literally around the corner. It's really convenient. All of us here in our building are low income. I've been to other food pantries. Also there's more help during Christmas time: The Salvation Army Christmas cheer they have in my city, open to non-Christians.

[@MoneySmartFamily]

Michelle that new food pantry sounds awesome! What city are you in?

[@kittykatz3518]

15,000 food pantries for an entire country?? That is clearly not enough.

[@MoneySmartFamily]

Hmmmm, never thought of that. I wonder if it counts all of the churches that give food away.

[@LazzyBoy-p5b]

What if am not a resident can i use the food bank??

[@MoneySmartFamily]

Each one will have different rules, but from what we've seen, most of the people who work there have compassionate hearts and want to help, not judge.

[@avrilrain9444]

Hi, I love your videos and appreciate all the time and effort but most of all what's in your hearts to share your knowledge. I have a question did you just go thru the steps as a demonstration of the process or did you purchas the food as a donation to the pantry?

[@MoneySmartFamily]

That's a great question. The food pantry was gracious to give us some food for shooting this video. We shared it with folks who could use it. The produce does not last long and this food pantry is not super busy or well known yet. We have donated to this food pantry and Annette is gathering a bag of non perishable items to do again soon.

[@BrendaC-cf7td]

Oh wow, here in Canada. They want all your bills ect. To prove to actually need it. If they think you make to much money they turn you away. I had $10 for 2 weeks . Not aloud to use food bank. We make around 35 thousand a year. I'm diabetic and on disability

[@MoneySmartFamily]

Brenda - thanks for sharing. To be honest, we have heard that some food pantries require more proof of need. But we've also heard of many that don't. It makes us wonder if all food pantries in Canada require this kind of information or if it just a few. Thanks for bringing up this topic.

[@marthamares6798]

They used to before here in Phoenix. About 10 years ago when I had my first baby and my husband was laid off. You could also only get a box once a month. I havent been to an actual food bank since then so I don't know now.

[@MoneySmartFamily]

Food banks do vary all around the country, and even city to city, and of course in your country as well. There are always food options, and of course you can grow a garden too. Here's a link to our gardening tips....moneysmartfamily.com/money-saving-tips/landscaping-gardening-tips/

[@shawncooper9999]

Me and my husband get snaps we only getting $39 a month to buy food. how can we live in$39 a month on snaps do you think that we can go to food banks?

[@pammypoo3003]

Absolutely! You guys are the perfect candidates. God bless you!

[@shawncooper9999]

@@pammypoo3003 can you please help us find food banks where we live?

[@MoneySmartFamily]

Just do an internet search for some in your area. If you don't have internet at home or on your phone, go to your nearest public library!

[@charlieann456]

​@MoneySmartFamily My library has shelves of free food. People drop off items and those who need it, take it.

[@arlenerituno]

In buffalo ny area pantrys you can only go onnce a month only and they ask you 10000 of ?"s most is very personal and you have to have a address and you have to show that you have income and me and my family got old food that has been way pass the date of being able to eat it .i can so much more about this here in buffalo ny but i will leave it .

[@MoneySmartFamily]

Arlene - thanks for sharing your experience - that sounds really hard. Are there other options for food relief in your area? Maybe a church or community center?

[@angelikabertrand4045]

There is nothing to feel ashamed of. What I ashamed off is our ir responsible politician that drive taxes up higher for all of us, but the rich people wont pay their fair share of taxes. This floors me.

[@wardgeraci7724]

The wealthy pay a high percent of federal and state taxes, however they're incomes match 2019-2020 mine yours and to many others income is stuck in the late 80s and mid 90s

[@lauradees4625]

Their fair share? Prove they are paying less then you. They don't owe MORE and you less. They are responsible for their tax bracket and no more.

[@MoneySmartFamily]

Angelika, let's not bring politics into this. Everyone needs to do the best they can to improve their lives and financial situation!

[@BargainBeautyAmy]

Great video

[@MoneySmartFamily]

Thank you

[@kellinmoore2146]

The only kosher i know is kosher pickles

[@MoneySmartFamily]

There are a lot of kosher foods out there, and probably ones you eat on a weekly basis without even knowing!

[@barbswartz3022]

Why are you cooking ham if the title says Kosher?

[@kellinmoore2146]

@@MoneySmartFamily im gomma google kosher foods

[@helenmurphy3143]

WHERE IS THIS

[@MoneySmartFamily]

Helen, this is in the Phoenix area of Arizona. Every major city has food banks.

[@angelikabertrand4045]

This is sad. It will get worse. I cant believe in Utah that will ask for increasing food tax, gas tax, sales tax. FREAKING REALLY? A LOT OF MORMON FAMILIES WILL STARVE EVEN MORE. Not just mormons low income 2. It shouldnt be like this. I l work on getting more prepared with food storage. I have a feeling we are in for some harsh times.

[@MoneySmartFamily]

Maybe Angelika, but it never hurts to be prepared.

[@truegamer2819]

this is all good n all, but if you dont have protection meaning a guard to protect your pantry while you help the community when SHTF! then you're a easy target, i fear for America that something very bad is coming and its not gonna be a easy thing for us to deal with

[@MoneySmartFamily]

Thanks for sharing your opinion - I hope you're fears don't materialize, but with the current divisive climate it may become reality. Let's work at building bridges - let's build people up - stop the name calling and rankor. Life is too short. There is so much that unites us, we need to focus on that.

[@josephtenecela1964]

Are food banks free food

[@MoneySmartFamily]

Yes they are!

[@allakaren5348]

What is the address please

[@marchellagulino533]

i go to the food bank u di donate things to.the church an thrift shops to

[@marchellagulino533]

i take but i give back

[@MoneySmartFamily]

This is awesome Marcella!

[@marchellagulino533]

an i dont take every th8ng food bank have i 9nly take food ke an my k8ds will eat

[@katemill3632]

We have a food pantry, I have food allergies, and i am not allowed to see what is in the pantry, it is a $50.00 cab ride, you can only go once a month, When I tell them I have Celiliac disease, they put gluten in my cart, and i'm allergic to, dairy, grains, nuts, chocolate poultry, fish , and seafood, they get furious. I may be broke but i'm never going back.

[@MoneySmartFamily]

So sorry Kate.

[@iarshintasudjana4382]

Waw...you can ask nicely.. to get food from food banks.

[@MoneySmartFamily]

Being polite is always good. The food pantries hope that you will determine wisely whether you need them or not!

[@swolfe9668]

If your hungry you will use food shelves

[@kristinesharp6286]

I think the lady is grabbing too much. The pantry person keeps saying you would only take one if you are a single person or couple.

[@MoneySmartFamily]

Kris, this video was to show what was available. They gave food to us so we could share with others. We willingly receive the compensation. The perishable items have to be thrown away if not used.

[@sunset6010]

The Food Pantry i had seen was a small room 20× 20

[@MoneySmartFamily]

Yes, this is a small one, but they meet a very unique need!

[@kathrynbroome5966]

i dont agree with what you said if you have money left if you can afford toput money in ur car gas thats a luxtory is you have money it should be spent on food not gas then someone else who carnt afford fgas to run a car can eat

[@MoneySmartFamily]

Kathryn, you are certainly allowed to disagree with us. Just keep in mind that food banks often have fresh produce they need to throw away because there aren't enough folks that come to take it!

[@kopynd1]

no one in this day and age, should have to rely on food banks. what's gone wrong, in the 50s there were at least 7 kids and were all fed, what's the problem, people are living on the streets and starving, I need a answer, technology is destroying the human race

[@MoneySmartFamily]

Trevor, there can be many reasons for this. Managing household finances is not taught in school, so if it isn't taught in the house where you grew up, many can be at a loss. Also, all the media we watch makes spending money you don't have a very cool thing. Media also teaches us that love is measured by how much you spend on someone. Two complete lies. Frugal Living is not in vogue, as a matter of fact, be ready to be ridiculed for it. The 50's held a completely different way of life for everyone, it doesn't exist anymore. Plus there are more dysfunctional families today, and that adds to mental health and more emotional issues. Again, this is not the only reason folks need a food bank. Please be compassionate!

[@heatherk4401]

Do you have to be American?

[@MoneySmartFamily]

I don't know, I sure hope they have food pantries all around the world, but we have no experience with this.

[@darlene971]

@@MoneySmartFamily maybe heather is asking for vistors or immigrates that are not American citizens

[@buckeyedav1]

@@MoneySmartFamily We have a lot of food banks in my city.. I would think you have to be a American Citizen but I see a lot of people of different ethnic back grounds at the pantries I go to.. Samoyans, Spanish, Indians, etc. we do have one I know of that is a produce stand open 1 hour a week on Saturdays and their policy is No Questions Asked, Take What You Need. Anna In Ohio.

[@MoneySmartFamily]

@@buckeyedav1 I do not know about the citizen requirement. What you share about the weekly produce stand is beautiful!

[@deedeesmith3073]

You do not need to be a legal citizen . I volunteer at a food pantry. You do need some form of Id though

[@grateful1929]

I think food banks should be for people who can't buy food period. Not to help save so you can pay your light bill UNLESS you have very limited money. People who shop there and have a savings and aren't struggling at all but are just CHEAP should be ashamed. I don't mean to be ugly but it kind of upsets me. Food pantry's should be for those in dire need. My grandparents were Italian. they had a paid for home in fact everything they had was paid for they did not struggle at all but yet they would shop at times at food pantries and I remember being a young girl and getting upset with them and telling them that they were taking from other people and that they did not need free food they had plenty of money

[@marthamares6798]

This comment right here is why a lot of people put off seeking the help they need. She was trying to break down the stigma of people resorting to food banks. Besides, I don't think she meant it the way you make it seem. The fact is, there is a lot of people who need help in many ways wether you think they are deserving or not. If I have a job but suddenly my car breaks down and I need to either replace it or repair it otherwise I can't go to work. So maybe I fall behind on other utilities like electricity (btw electricity is a necessity not a luxury to have. Especially here in Arizona where temps in the summer go way high and people have been known to die because their electricity was cut off and their house was way too hot), and/or fall behind on rent or mortgage (where is my family going to live?), then my food budget keeps getting smaller and smaller untill I cannot even buy eggs or a loaf of bread. So now I am behind on everything. So I suck up my pride and go to a food bank and realized that thats why they exist. To help out struggling families. And the little that they give you (because they give you enough for a couple of days, it's not like fill up your fridge and pantry) is such a welcome blessing. And think that maybe I should have probably come to the food bank sooner and saved my family from almost starving or having my electricity shut off or whatever. Or maybe my kid needs new glasses so he can see the board at school, or I need a root cannal so I can finally be releaved of the pain on the side of my face. Or maybe I need an ultrasound or MRI or whatever because I have some misterious pain or symptom and no one seems to know what it is but either the doctors refuse to do it or I think I cant because I haven't paid off all the other doctor bills I've had and that my insurance doesnt cover. No one ever truly knows what someone is going through. I have been there. My mom has been there (she is still trying to get back on her feet after being on medical leave for over six months) the items I take her from the mobile food pantry I mentioned in another comment help her a bit and they help me too. If your grandpatents didnt have the need, thats between them and God and no one elses business.

[@grateful1929]

@@marthamares6798 I'm very sorry. I meant that if a person ISN'T having problems they shouldn't go. I guess I didn't word it right.

[@MoneySmartFamily]

Martha, you are right on! Some of these food pantries have perishable food that will not last long and will need to be thrown away if folks don't visit and eat it up. We never know what situations are facing a family. Food pantries should not be a regular thing. Families should strive to work together to get to a better place financially. If you are talking about single mom's with little kids, this may be almost impossible. Or a family with severe medical issues and/ or perhaps disabilities. So many reasons one might need a food pantry. Those of us who are able, should donate when we can.

[@Deana9528]

Why are you shopping there?

[@MoneySmartFamily]

We have a friend who volunteers there. When we heard about the services they offered and the heart of the people who worked there we decided to donate some food, and then thought that it would be a great thing to bring it to our KZbin friends. We want to break down the stigma of visiting a food pantry. We're hoping to encourage families who are experiencing financial struggles that getting help with food isn't a shaming thing. It's an empowering thing. And that food pantries can be a way to bridge a financial downturn. And help you turn the corner financially by freeing up some money to pay down debt or get utilities turned back on.

[@Deana9528]

@@MoneySmartFamily I thought you were shopping there for your family. I volunteer at a pantry 2 times a month.

[@daiseyleightide7370]

What bothers me is that people go on a dumpster dive and donate trash foods. This makes me sick.

[@rexcarebear4701]

Do you actually have proof anybody does that if not saying it is a little inflammatory and unnecessary food

[@beverlyanne5699]

It really is not that easy. You have to be able to get to the food bank, no vehicle, no income for bus fare, no physical ability to get there, there may be sensitive issues for persons in need preventing them from getting the food they need. And often they are out of "walking distance", and if you have a disability good luck getting any food home. Local food banks only get anything that is donated. The smaller the town, the smaller the donations given, and my town is never funnelled donations from larger cities ever. For no reason that I can think if at all. It is sink or swim. I am actually completely disgusted at the selfishness of shoppers not donating when they totally can walking past the donation bin. There is never any of this dietary accomodations at the food banks I have been to in all my life I have been involved in. They give out what they get donated, often they divide it up based on the monthly signed up family request list for service. So you may want certain foods, or quantities but get just enough for one person for 2 days. You are expecting about enough for 3 people for atleast a couple weeks. It just does not add up or go far enough. If you can get there, any bit is better than nothing. But if you have dietary restrictions or specific needs that cannot be met, it is not. More harm than good or not worth the bother. Most times, in small towns, the demand exceeds the donations and there is no help at all, so do not show up. Stretch your own dollars and meals. Save yourself the humiliation. These are the universal truths.

[@MoneySmartFamily]

Oh Lynx, so sorry to hear this. I can certainly see this perspective about small towns. I know we have much opportunity, living in a big city. Here's a link to our grocery resources, and some of them are free....moneysmartfamily.com/groceries/ . Also, here is a way you can earn some money at home...moneysmartfamily.com/blog/swagbucks-legit-scam-review/.....And this one...moneysmartfamily.com/blog/best-survey-apps/

[@arlenerituno]

No they go by ur zip code and it is really hard on me being fully disable with no ride and no kind of government Help and they are so rude and making you feel less then a person here when asking for help then when you ask by anyway can someone please deliver me my monthly pantry food they rudely said no that regardless how hard up i am i still have to come to them regardless.

[@MoneySmartFamily]

Arlene - that sounds really hard - we hurting with you. Don't give up, keep looking for different solutions you're going to find a way that works for you.

[@ashleybosvik3031]

I would like to mention at a food bank I went to there was this guy going around saying what a bunch of losers you are etc, just left.

[@MoneySmartFamily]

Ashley, That's really sad. We've learned that people who make statements like that are usually very wounded and hurting. As a result they try to bring others down to their level. Don't take it personally - you keep doing what you need to do to get your finances and life in order. You're heading the right direction.

[@youcanknowanything8489]

I dont intend this comment to be negative...but merely an observation. You write that you are ¨shopping¨ at a food bank. That is not accurate. You are accepting donations....accepting help, accepting gifts. But please dont call it shopping. Shopping involves paying for what you buy. The only items that you can ¨shop¨ for in this food bank, are the items that they charge you money for...such as the kosher meats. Again, not trying to be persnicketyy.....just saying....you must be accurate in what you are doing. Surprised to be seeing the Economides family accepting handouts, when they promote financial education and financial independence.

[@MoneySmartFamily]

Carla - you comment does come across as somewhat persnickety. We donated a lot of our citrus that we grow to this food bank. We have a friend who volunteers there and wanted to promote the good, kind work they do. We also wanted to break down any barriers or shame associated with the idea of visiting a food bank when someone has a need. We have coached many families in financial distress and going to a food bank is one of the many ways we help them get back on their feet financially. As far as the food goes that we accepted, we ate some and gave away some to people who could use it. Grace, kindness and understanding are so important in today's contentious society. Let's build bridges.

[@dingdong289]

Can someone let me know the nearest food bank. Less on my food bill, will allow me more for booze and ciggies !!

[@MoneySmartFamily]

Hi - we referenced this website in the video and the show notes: FIND A FOOD PANTRY IN YOUR AREA: Visit www.feedingamerica.org/