A Message From The Anne Arundel County Food Bank

Due to the state of emergency issued by Governor Larry Hogan concerning COVID-19 on March 13, the Maryland Department of Corrections (DOC) eliminated outside work details, including those the Anne Arundel County Food Bank (AACFB) rely on for warehouse labor. It is uncertain when our DOC workers will be able to return. With the help of regular AACFB volunteers and staff, the AACFB filled all of our orders on Friday and will continue to ensure continuum of services during this time of need.

The Anne Arundel County Food Bank is constantly updating its website of food pantries that are remaining open during this pandemic and to bridge any food security gaps. The Anne Arundel County Food Bank has increased foods to pantries so clients may receive more food and help with the increased need. Anne Arundel schools expanded a coronavirus meal program to provide students with breakfast, lunch and dinner through mobile meal delivery. The Department of Aging has arranged to have meals delivered to seniors enrolled in the nutrition program. As many of our food pantry volunteers are seniors at potential high risk of COVID-19, staffing at pantries is likely to be a concern. A list of backup volunteers is being created.

Due to people stocking up on food and items, donations from our Feeding America/Retail Rescue partners have dropped. Typical food collection sites have closed due to the state of emergency, and spring food drives have been cancelled. Virtual food drives through Amazon and Target have run out of food. Alternative food collection sites are needed. Monetary donations are vital to allow the AACFB to purchase foods directly from vendors and the MD Food Bank.

The Anne Arundel County Food Bank supports the local community and needs your immediate help in terms of volunteer time and much-needed in-kind food donations. Food may be purchased from the MD Food Bank at a discounted rate; however, the cost is beyond the Anne Arundel County Food Bank's resources.

(The Maryland Food Bank supports Maryland at large)

Anne Arundel County citizens who want to help Anne Arundel County residents in need are encouraged to donate directly to the AACFB. To donate, visit www.aafoodbank.org.

Together we can.