Feeding the Hungry

The FreestoreFoodbank operates one of Ohio's largest food banks, serving a population of more than 160,000 low-income persons in 20 counties throughout the Tri-state.

Food and other product is donated to the foodbank by some 150 retailers and manufacturers. These products are useable, but unsaleable for a variety of reasons. Numerous food drives conducted by organizations in the community also contribute to the FreestoreFoodbank's food supply. Annually, about 10 million pounds of food is received by the FreestoreFoodbank and redistributed to those in need.

Partnering with the FreestoreFoodbank in distributing emergency food and other social services are approximately 450 nonprofit member agencies who operate food pantries, shelters, soup kitchens, daycare centers, senior centers, community centers and other social service agencies to assist needy persons in their own neighborhoods.

The FreestoreFoodbank became a charter member of America's Second Harvest - The Nation's Food Bank Network in 1979. Unlike other foodbanks in the network, the FreestoreFoodbank operates an Emergency Client Services Center. From the Food Room at this center, located in one of Cincinnati's most impoverished inner-city neighborhoods (Over-the-Rhine), the FreestoreFoodbank distributes emergency food and product directly to those in need. In a typical month, the Food Room serves food to approximately 7,000 individuals. Those numbers triple during the months of November and December when Holiday Food is distributed.