Although food assistance is available, many current and potential clients do not have

access to transportation to pick up food from agencies if locations are not within walking

distance. The Mobile Pantry program allows the Food Bank, in partnership with our

member agencies, to reach these individuals and families in need of food assistance.

Through the Mobile Pantry program, a Food Bank truck travels to a designated member
agency site in an under-served area during hours when clients find it easier to receive
assistance. The program allows the member agency to effectively and efficiently serve
low-income households in a two-hour time period.

Thirty-pound meal boxes filled with enough nutritious food to feed a family of three to

four for three to four days are distributed. Meal boxes consist of donated or purchased

food items such as peanut butter, pasta, rice, canned fruits, vegetables, non-perishable

meats, breakfast foods, snacks and beverages. Fresh produce and fruit are also included with each meal box.

In September 2008, the Food Bank of Delaware set up a Mobile Pantry in Rodney Square for Hunger Awareness Day. 682 meal boxes were distributed to Delawareans in need. Families and individuals also received beverages, snacks, loaves of bread and fresh potatoes.

Last year 5,808 meal boxes were delivered statewide through the program. As the economy continues to slow, the Food Bank anticipates an increase in the need for meal boxes.