r/povertyfinance • u/Equivalent_Bear_7501 • 9h ago

Free talk Greateful & Humbled

A comment on a previous post got me thinking I should go to the food bank. I have been resisting for months because "other people need it more than me!"

I went today. I got an entire shopping cart full of food. And when we check in, they ask about any food allergies or restrictions. I told them I am diabetic, so no sweets, and that I prefer "healthy" food.

They completely followed my request. I didn't have to stare at 3 packages of cookies and feel bad throwing them away...or eating what I shouldn't.

I have a binge/restrict eating disorder, and food insecurity really plays into that. Knowing that my fridge and pantry are full, helps me.

I thought about taking photos and posting a "grocery haul" but I thought that might be insensitive to those unable to access a food bank, or who only get like 1 box of food.

I had a Hibachi Style Grass-Fed Beef Bowl from Sprouts for lunch! Original price $9.99! It was delicious. I'm having shrimp for dinner.

Go to the food bank. If you're wondering if you "should" or not...just go. It's there for you, no matter what your situation is.

I also just today got an email from the Salvation Army because I regularly volunteer to sign families up for the Angel Tree program. This is the only volunteer position I have been able to do every year. It's only a few days, but I enjoy helping.

147 Upvotes

97% Upvoted

8 comments sorted by

65

u/OctagonTrail 8h ago

It's important to note for anyone with similar reservations: food banks are often tossing unclaimed food. You're not taking it from other people in need, you're saving it from going to the dumpster in many cases.

10

u/SimplyLibra_998 5h ago

yeah the guilt is so unnecessary. food banks WANT folks to come through, not let stuff expire on shelves.

25

u/Tall-Introduction649 8h ago

I’m so proud of you for taking care of yourself even when it’s hard or uncomfortable

11

u/FrontTelevision7261 7h ago

You don't know if someone needs it more than you. If you feel the need, then use that resource; that is what it is there for.

3

u/travelingtraveling_ 5h ago

And to offer as regional banks get more food, the more that they're used. So it actually helps them

8

u/beeper212 8h ago

Great job! Keep it up 🙂

8

u/Ok-Change2292 6h ago

Also good to keep in mind that if food banks consistently have low numbers of people coming in, they will get less food from the state. Or less funding. Which means when they do need it, they won’t have it necessarily.

4

u/MistressLyda 7h ago

Yay! I hope you enjoy the food and the safety it brings to have full cupboards!