Is It Time for You to Access a Food Bank?

If you are trying to decide whether it’s the right time for you to access a food bank, this article can help. Many people hesitate to get help. Some people feel they should tough it out and survive on what’s in the cupboards until things get better. Other people don’t want to go to a food bank because they don’t want to take resources away from people who are in dire need. Some folks are just embarrassed to accept charity and so they go without. There are a lot of myths out there about who can access food banks. 
However, if you are having trouble feeding yourself and your family, that’s the only reason you need! Surviving is not the same thing as thriving, and charity is all about spreading resources around between those who have enough and those who don’t. It’s okay to accept help if you need it. Here are the reasons why it might be time for you to access a food bank. 

Trouble Focusing and Negative Mental Health 

First and foremost, hunger is the only reason you need to visit a food bank. It’s okay to ask for help with groceries if you don’t have enough money for food. But if you’ve been putting it off and now it’s beginning to affect your mental health, then you should definitely access a food bank without shame.  

You need to be able to focus and be present in your life. Food can play an important role in supporting your mental health. So if you are struggling to feel positive or make plans for the future, then it might be time for you to visit a local food bank. You can choose to visit the Second Harvest Food Bank just one time if you need help on a low week, or request an emergency food box. It’s also normal to visit the food bank several times per month.  

Everyone’s situation is different, and you know best whether it’s time to accept help. You’re now experiencing a low moment, but you’ve probably been generous to others when you had more to give. Now, all you have to do is accept the gift of groceries from someone who has a little extra. Then you can take a deep breath and start to plan the future. 

Choosing Between Food and Bills 

No one should have to choose between feeding their family or keeping the lights on. If your limited budget means that you have had to sacrifice food in order to pay a bill, then it’s time to visit a food bank. By accepting some free groceries, you can pay your essential bills. That’s a great reason to access a food bank. ​

If you don’t like to take without giving back, then you can always volunteer. However, this isn’t necessary. There’s enough to go around! The Second Harvest Food Bank is a project that connects neighbors in need with free, local food sources. We invite you to come and meet your friendly neighborhood food bank volunteers and get the groceries you need.