Definition of the word food bank

The term "food bank" was coined in the late 1960s by John van Engen, the founder of the first food bank in North America, which was established in Arizona, USA. The idea of a food bank emerged as a response to the increasing issues of hunger and food insecurity in the region. Van Engen recognized that many people were struggling to access enough food to meet their basic needs, despite the fact that food was being wasted in large quantities by supermarkets and other organizations. To combat this issue, van Engen proposed a new system where excess food could be collected and redistributed to those in need. He suggested creating a central location, or bank, where food could be stored and distributed to local charities and food pantries. The term "food bank" was born, and it quickly gained popularity as an effective solution to food insecurity. The first food bank in Canada was established in 1981, and the idea soon spread to other countries around the world. Today, food banks are an essential part of the social safety net in many communities, providing vital support to those experiencing food insecurity. Food banks operate through a network of partnerships with supermarkets, food manufacturers, and individuals, enabling them to collect large quantities of food and redistribute it to those in need. Food banks also play an important role in addressing other related issues, such as poverty, homelessness, and hunger reduction. The concept of the food bank has evolved over time, but the underlying principle of providing access to nutritious food for those in need remains constant.