WHAT'S THE DIFFERENCE?
FOOD CLOSET | FOOD PANTRY | FOOD BANK
WHAT IS A FOOD CLOSET AND PANTRY?
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Food closet and food pantries are two terms that are often used interchangeably. However, there is a slight difference between the two. A food closet is usually a smaller operation that is run out of a church or community center.
Both are local distribution centers to provide food on a regular or an emergency basis to families in need. They play a vital role in feeding hundreds of families in need each week, and they have a close relationship with the families they serve.
WHAT IS A FOOD BANK?
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Most food closets or food pantries get their supplies from a food bank. The food bank is a giant warehouse that stores food and allocates it among the local food pantries or distribution centers based on their needs. The food banks get their supply from different sources such as government, like the USDA and state, or private donations from community partners, companies, and individuals. The food bank partner of the Cape May Community Food Closet is the Community Food Bank of New Jersey. - (photo used from the CFBNJ website).
WHY SUPPORT THE LOCAL COMMUNITY?
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Even though food banks are often able to store millions of pounds of food at a time, the need is sometimes so great that it outpaces the supply. Thus, local food closets and food pantries might need additional monetary contributions and/or food donations to keep up with the local need. That's why monetary donations are always welcome - they can be used to purchase additional food as needed. And if you're looking to donate food, non-perishable items are always a good choice.
