In particular to the Food Bank, many people feel that whoever attends the event is labeled with the stereo-type implying that they are ‘poor’. Either because they’re unemployed, or just having a tough time financially, the Food Bank has become many people’s only choice to keep themselves and their families fed, and often feel embarrassed because of this implied stigma. It causes many in the community to back away in fear of judgement. 

But as more people are becoming dependent on the Food Bank, this stigma, the image of old, canned goods supplied to struggling individuals, are making more people in our community feel like they shouldn’t reach out to the Food Bank. 

Breaking this stigma is an important step towards people feeling more comfortable using the Food Bank. To do this, as a community, we need to put forward a new trend for the Food Bank, so everyone can see it as a place where any person in need can come to get quality products for themselves and their family. 

One way to break the stigma is to educate people on what the Food Bank is. This way, people can understand what the Food Bank does and how anyone can access their services.

Some believe they need identification to access the Food Bank, and therefore, skip it all together. At the Arlington Community Food Bank, there is no requirement for ID.  Names only are required for documenting how many people are served. Additionally, neighbors or friends are able to pick up food for those struggling with food insecurity.

Community members who are food insecure can simply show up for distribution times: Monday 5-6pm, Wednesday 5:30-7pm, and Friday 11:30-1pm. They can contact the Food Bank directly if getting to the distribution is a challenge, there are very limited home deliveries at this time.