Many food banks are facing new challenges and preparing for recently announced changes in federal funding for food assistance programs. These cuts — targeting the Local Food Purchasing Assistance Program (LFPA), The Emergency Food Assistance Program (TEFAP), and the Local Food for Schools Cooperative Agreement Program — leave a significant funding gap in the ability of food banks and local organizations to provide nutritious food to communities in need.
Although some of these federal programs were created in response to the COVID-19 pandemic, these cuts hit at a time when the need for food assistance has never been greater. With food insecurity at a 10-year high and food prices continuing to rise, this loss of funding creates a gap that could worsen the current crisis.
As communities brace for the fallout, it’s important to remember that hunger is not a partisan issue. Regardless of political affiliations, the reality remains that the cuts will create a gap in meeting the needs of our neighbors. The question facing food banks right now is: How should we respond?
In moments of crisis, food banks and local communities have always found a way to rise above. The COVID-19 pandemic demonstrated the food bank industry’s capacity for resilience, innovation, and hope. From new partnerships to creative solutions, we learned that even in the most uncertain of times, food banks and their communities are capable of finding a way to extend their hands to each other.
We’re confident that it’s this same spirit that will guide us through the current challenges. In the face of these cuts, we know our food bank friends and their partners are determined to continue serving their neighbors and ensuring that no one goes to bed hungry. However, they cannot do it alone.
In light of the recent federal funding cuts, it may be time for food banks to consider adjustments to communication and messaging strategies. Transparency is key: Donors deserve to understand the reality of the situation and how it impacts their neighbors. Being honest about the current funding gaps, the challenges food banks are facing, and the new needs arising from these cuts will help build trust and solidarity.
It’s important to acknowledge that these funding cuts are not a political issue — they affect people across all walks of life, and hunger knows no party lines. It’s okay to address the financial and logistical challenges these cuts pose while maintaining a neutral, nonpartisan tone in communications.
Using quick-turn channels such as email, text messages, website content, and digital media, food banks can start to adopt a “Breaking News Update” approach that keeps supporters informed about what’s happening, why it matters, and how they can help. It will also be important to establish a messaging platform for your MGOs and Corporate teams to use when discussing needs with Major and Corporate donors.
Given the ongoing uncertainty surrounding funding cuts and their potential impact, food banks should plan to pivot and revisit messaging points regularly to ensure they remain relevant and aligned with the latest developments.
The reality is that food banks will face new challenges because of these cuts. By being transparent about the new needs, food banks can create a more authentic connection with their communities and encourage ongoing support during these uncertain times.
Many food banks are already sharing updates with their supporters, and it can be helpful to see how others are approaching these changes. By examining different messaging strategies, food banks can better understand how to communicate the impact of these cuts while maintaining transparency and rallying their communities.
Here are a few examples of how food banks are currently addressing the issue:
As we navigate uncertain times together yet again, TrueSense Marketing remains deeply committed to standing by our food bank partners because we know that what’s at stake is far greater than just funding — it’s about the well-being of our neighbors. We are invested in doing what’s right for the communities we all serve, and we understand that these challenges, while daunting, are not insurmountable when we work together.
The road ahead may require flexibility and reevaluation, but one thing is certain: We are in this together, and we will rise to the occasion, just as we always have. Let’s continue to support one another, stay transparent, and ensure that all of our neighbors have the nutritious food they need to thrive.