For families in the Pittsburgh area who are struggling to make ends meet and have enough money to eat, the “Greater Pittsburgh Community Food Bank” might be an answer. Established in 1986, the food bank provides a variety of services and programs to provide nutritious foods and help those who are struggling with paying their bills get back on their feet again. The “food bank” program serves more than two-thousand households and has been described as a one-stop solution for people in need. In addition to a wide variety of emergency and primary service food programs, the food bank also provides over four-hundred pounds of grocery discounts to families in need each month. In addition, the organization partners with many other organizations and charitable groups in the Pittsburgh area, serving hundreds of needy families each month.

The mission of the Greater Pittsburgh Community – Food Bank is to work in partnership with the people, society, and environment to improve the health and the quality of life for all. In doing so, they work diligently to alleviate hunger and poverty in our southern Pennsylvania area through providing a food assistance program that meets the specific needs of the residents in the area. These organizations strive to expand their food pantries and food storage capacity to meet the growing needs of families and individuals in the Pittsburgh area. Because the organization serves so many families in need each month, they have a long waiting list to receive assistance. With the help of volunteers, local coordinators, and contract workers, they have been able to expand their services, increase their food storage capacity and continue to work with local providers and private charities to provide higher quality food.

Assistance to the greater community:

1. If you live in the Pittsburgh area and are interested in finding out more about the food pantries and the food banks that provide the service, there are several sources.
2. The most comprehensive website of this type provides a frequently asked questions page, FAQ page, and frequently posted articles on the food bank’s activities.
3. Other websites offer more detailed information, including application forms and directory listings.
4. One such website, Pittsburgh Feeders, allows users to post food donations, which are then reviewed by volunteers before being distributed.

Another excellent resource – for those interested in learning more about the food bank is its website. A glossary of terms and links provides an introduction to the food pantries. A frequently posted article offers tips on how to shop at the food bank and describes its history. An online directory listing contains a list of all the participating food pantries. Both these sites provide a wealth of information about one of the greatest volunteer organizations in the Pittsburgh area.

The Greater Pittsburgh Community – Food Bank also maintains an online newsletter, which is sent to its members twice a month. This newsletter features stories, articles, recipes, and special offerings from the food pantries. A frequently updated photo album displays the food pantries and recipes on one page. All subscribers are invited to sign up for the newsletter.

Anybody who wishes to donate time or skills can volunteer at the food bank – Those who have knowledge of cooking or baking can set up an appointment to work at the pantries. Anyone who knows how to clean tables and organize cabinets can help pick up leftovers and empty bags at the donation center. No skill is too much to give – even a tooth to be filled is greatly appreciated.

To learn more about the Greater Pittsburgh Community Food Bank and its work, visit its website at Pittsburgh Communities Allied Resource Bank.