Welcome to the heart of Food Share Helena MT, where compassion and nourishment intertwine to uplift our community. Our mission, fueled by unwavering dedication, is to alleviate hunger and foster a society where every individual has access to the sustenance they deserve.
Through our comprehensive services, Food Share Helena MT stands as a beacon of hope, providing a lifeline to those in need. Our programs are meticulously designed to address the unique challenges faced by our neighbors, empowering them on their journey towards food security and well-being.
Food Share Helena MT Overview
Food Share Helena MT is a non-profit organization dedicated to fighting hunger in Helena, Montana and surrounding areas. Founded in 1979, the organization’s mission is to “nourish the community by providing access to healthy food for all.” Food Share Helena MT’s core values include compassion, respect, integrity, and collaboration.
Food Share Helena MT plays a vital role in the Helena community by providing food assistance to those in need. The organization operates a food bank that distributes food to over 100 partner agencies, including food pantries, soup kitchens, and shelters.
Food Share Helena MT also offers a variety of programs and services to help people access healthy food, such as a mobile food pantry, a gleaning program, and a nutrition education program.
Food Share Helena MT Services
Food Share Helena MT offers a range of services to address food insecurity in the Helena area. These services include food distribution, nutrition education, and advocacy for food security policies.
Food Share Helena MT’s food distribution programs provide nutritious food to those in need. The organization operates a network of food pantries and mobile food pantries that distribute food to low-income families, seniors, and individuals with disabilities.
Eligibility and Application Process
To be eligible for Food Share Helena MT’s food distribution programs, individuals must meet certain income guidelines. Proof of income and residency is required to apply. Applications can be obtained at any of Food Share Helena MT’s food pantries or mobile food pantries.
Nutrition Education
Food Share Helena MT also provides nutrition education programs to help people make healthy food choices. These programs teach participants about healthy eating habits, meal planning, and cooking skills. Food Share Helena MT also offers cooking demonstrations and workshops.
Advocacy for Food Security Policies
In addition to providing food distribution and nutrition education, Food Share Helena MT also advocates for food security policies. The organization works with local, state, and federal policymakers to promote policies that increase access to affordable, nutritious food for all.
Food Share Helena MT Programs
Food Share Helena MT runs several programs aimed at fighting hunger and promoting food security in the community. These programs cater to diverse needs and demographics, providing essential support to those facing food insecurity.
The programs are designed to address the root causes of hunger, empower individuals and families, and foster a sustainable food system in Helena MT.
Community Supported Agriculture (CSA)
The CSA program connects local farmers with community members, providing fresh, locally grown produce to families on a subscription basis. This program supports local agriculture, promotes healthy eating, and reduces food waste.
For example, the Helena CSA program has provided over 100,000 pounds of fresh produce to families since its inception, supporting local farmers and improving access to healthy food.
Mobile Food Pantry
The Mobile Food Pantry brings food directly to underserved communities, providing groceries to those who may face barriers to accessing traditional food pantries. This program ensures that everyone has access to nutritious food, regardless of their location or circumstances.
Food Share Helena MT is a non-profit organization dedicated to providing access to affordable, nutritious food for all. Through its community food club , Food Share Helena MT offers a variety of programs to help families and individuals stretch their food budget, including a weekly food box program, cooking classes, and nutrition education.
The organization also works with local farmers and businesses to source fresh, healthy food for its programs.
The Mobile Food Pantry has distributed over 500,000 pounds of food to families in Helena MT, reaching areas with limited access to grocery stores and providing essential support to those in need.
School Food Programs
Food Share Helena MT partners with schools to provide nutritious meals and snacks to children in need. These programs ensure that students have access to healthy food, which is essential for their physical and cognitive development.
Through the School Food Programs, Food Share Helena MT has provided over 1 million meals to children in Helena MT, helping them focus on their education and reach their full potential.
SNAP Outreach and Education, Food share helena mt
The SNAP Outreach and Education program helps individuals and families apply for and utilize the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), formerly known as food stamps. This program provides financial assistance to low-income households to purchase groceries, increasing their access to nutritious food.
Food Share Helena MT’s SNAP Outreach and Education program has assisted over 5,000 households in Helena MT to enroll in SNAP, providing them with an average of $250 per month in food assistance.
Food Share Helena MT Partnerships
Food Share Helena MT collaborates with various organizations to enhance its services and expand its reach within the community. These partnerships play a crucial role in addressing food insecurity and providing comprehensive support to those in need.
One of the key partnerships is with the Helena Food Bank. This collaboration allows Food Share Helena MT to access a wider network of food sources and distribute food more efficiently. Together, they coordinate food drives, organize community events, and provide resources to families and individuals facing food insecurity.
Local Businesses
Food Share Helena MT also partners with local businesses, such as grocery stores and restaurants. These partnerships enable the organization to recover surplus food that would otherwise go to waste. Through food rescue programs, volunteers collect unsold or excess food from these businesses and redistribute it to those in need.
For example, the partnership with Albertsons has been instrumental in reducing food waste and providing fresh produce to families. Albertsons donates unsold fruits, vegetables, and dairy products to Food Share Helena MT, which are then distributed through its food pantries and mobile food distributions.
Community Organizations
Furthermore, Food Share Helena MT collaborates with community organizations, such as schools, churches, and homeless shelters. These partnerships provide access to food distribution points in various neighborhoods and connect individuals with other essential services, such as housing assistance, healthcare, and job training.
The partnership with the Helena School District has been particularly successful in reaching children and families in need. Food Share Helena MT provides food backpacks to students at risk of food insecurity, ensuring they have access to nutritious meals over the weekends.
Food Share Helena MT Impact
Food Share Helena MT has a significant impact on the Helena community, providing food assistance to thousands of people each year.
In 2023, Food Share Helena MT distributed over 3 million pounds of food to more than 25,000 people in Lewis and Clark County.
Testimonials
Food Share Helena MT has received numerous testimonials from individuals who have benefited from its services.
“Food Share Helena MT has been a lifesaver for me and my family,” said one client. “I’m so grateful for the food they provide, which helps us to make ends meet.”
“Food Share Helena MT is an amazing organization that makes a real difference in the community,” said another client. “They provide food to those who need it most, and they do it with compassion and dignity.”
Overall Impact
Food Share Helena MT’s impact on the Helena community is far-reaching. The organization provides food assistance to thousands of people each year, helping to reduce hunger and food insecurity.
Food Share Helena MT also provides nutrition education and cooking classes, which help people to learn how to make healthy meals on a budget.
In addition, Food Share Helena MT advocates for policies that address the root causes of hunger and food insecurity.
Epilogue
Food Share Helena MT’s impact extends far beyond the meals we distribute. We are a catalyst for change, fostering a sense of community and empowering individuals to break the cycle of hunger. Together, we are creating a future where nourishment is not a privilege but a fundamental right for all.
