Pivoting, Adjusting & Learning
Tune in for Food First Michigan on WJR Radio this Sunday at 9:00 PM to hear Dr. Phil Knight and Gerry Brisson, president and CEO of Gleaners Community Food Bank, discuss how as the economy reengages, the role food banks will have in assisting people as they lift themselves out of poverty..
Traditionally and historically, food banking has used a need-based messaging to tell the story of our work and the families that we serve. However, during this once-in-a-century public health crisis, the U.S. and state governments have responded by creating programs and enacting legislation which has helped lift many families out of poverty. Advocacy surrounding SNAP, P-EBT, TEFAP, Trade Mitigation, the Child Tax Credit, and more has played an important role in driving food insecurity rates downward to the lowest rates in 40+ years.
Now, what’s our message? How does the food bank network pivot to address the current level of need and should we expect the current situation to last? This is an unprecedented opportunity in the Michigan food bank network’s history. Understanding the measure of food insecurity and the lived experiences of our clients are critical for us to go to the next level of food security statewide.
Whether you are pre-pandemic, during-the-pandemic, post-pandemic – if you are worried about where your next meal is coming from, you only have ONE problem. WE are a large part of the long-term solution to creating food security. When hunger is truly taken off the table for people, they are able to focus on finding their next SUCCESS!
Find this episode and all past Food First Michigan episodes at foodfirstmi.org, on Apple Podcasts, or iHeartRadio.
Apple Podcasts –> https://apple.co/38UUpFk
iHeartRadio –> https://ihr.fm/38WJ2wN