Montana is home to a network of food banks dedicated to combating hunger and food insecurity across the state. From the Montana Food Bank Network, which coordinates efforts statewide, to local organizations like the Missoula Food Bank & Community Center and the Billings Food Bank, these vital resources provide essential support to communities. Whether you are in Helena, Kalispell, or Bozeman, these food banks offer a lifeline to those in need, ensuring that no one goes hungry. Discover more about these crucial services and how you can help make a difference in your community.
Montana Food Bank Network (MFBN)
The Montana Food Bank Network (MFBN) works to end hunger in Montana through food acquisition and distribution, education, and advocacy. They distribute food to over 360 partners, including community food banks, pantries, senior centers, shelters, and schools across the state. MFBN also operates programs such as BackPack, Hunters Against Hunger, Mail-a-Meal, and SNAP outreach, aiming to provide sustainable long-term solutions to hunger.
Location: 5625 Expressway, Missoula, MT 59808
Service Counties: Statewide
Contact Number: (406) 721-3825
Website: mfbn.org
Missoula Food Bank & Community Center
This food bank offers food assistance in Missoula and its surrounding areas, including satellite pantries in Bonner, Clinton, and Lolo. They provide various food distribution hours throughout the week and run multiple community programs to support those in need.
Location: 1720 Wyoming Street, Missoula, MT 59801
Service Counties: Missoula County
Contact Number: (406) 549-0543
Website: missoulafoodbank.org
Billings Food Bank
The Billings Food Bank provides a wide range of services, including food distribution, a culinary training program, and senior nutrition programs. They aim to support the local community by ensuring food security and providing opportunities for self-sufficiency.
Location: 2112 4th Avenue North, Billings, MT 59101
Service Counties: Yellowstone County and surrounding areas
Contact Number: (406) 259-2856
Website: billingsfoodbank.com
Gallatin Valley Food Bank
Serving Bozeman and the surrounding areas, the Gallatin Valley Food Bank provides essential food assistance through various programs, including mobile food distribution and summer lunch programs for children.
Location: 602 Bond Street, Bozeman, MT 59715
Service Counties: Gallatin County
Contact Number: (406) 586-7600
Website: gallatinvalleyfoodbank.org
Flathead Food Bank
The Flathead Food Bank serves the Flathead Valley, working to eliminate hunger through community partnerships and ensuring access to nutritious food for all residents.
Location: 1203 US Highway 2 West, Kalispell, MT 59901
Service Counties: Flathead County
Contact Number: (406) 752-3663
Website: flatheadfoodbank.org
Helena Food Share
Helena Food Share aims to create a hunger-free community by providing weekly food shopping opportunities and various nutrition programs for children, seniors, and families in need.
Location: 1616 Lewis Street, Helena, MT 59601
Service Counties: Lewis and Clark County
Contact Number: (406) 443-3663
Website: helenafoodshare.org
West Shore Food Bank
The West Shore Food Bank serves the upper West Shore of Flathead Lake, providing food and other essential services to mitigate food insecurity in the area.
Location: 100 Bierney Creek Road, Lakeside, MT 59922
Service Counties: Flathead County
Contact Number: (406) 844-2779
Website: westshorefoodbank.com
How Montana Food Banks Operate
Montana food banks operate through a network of local and statewide organizations dedicated to alleviating hunger and food insecurity across the state. The Montana Food Bank Network (MFBN) is the primary statewide food bank, coordinating with over 360 partner agencies, including community food banks, pantries, senior centers, shelters, and schools. These partners distribute food directly to those in need, ensuring access to nutritious food across urban and rural areas.
Local food banks, such as the Missoula Food Bank & Community Center and the Billings Food Bank, receive food from donations, government programs, and MFBN. They also run various programs tailored to their communities, such as mobile food pantries, senior nutrition programs, and children’s summer meal programs. These operations rely heavily on volunteers and community support to sort, pack, and distribute food efficiently.
How to Donate to Food Banks in Montana
- Monetary Donations: Financial contributions are one of the most effective ways to support food banks. Donations can be made online through food bank websites or in person. Every dollar donated helps provide multiple meals due to partnerships with food manufacturers and bulk purchasing agreements.
- Food Donations: Non-perishable food items can be donated directly to food banks. Many food banks have specific drop-off locations and times for donations. Check the food bank’s website for details on what items are most needed.
- Fund Drives: Organizing a food or fund drive in your community, workplace, or school can significantly impact local food banks. Contact your local food bank for resources and support to run a successful drive.
- Volunteering: Donating your time is invaluable. Volunteers are needed for sorting and packing food, assisting with distribution, and supporting administrative tasks. Most food banks provide information on volunteer opportunities on their websites.
- Planned Giving: Consider including a food bank in your estate planning. Planned giving can provide long-term support and ensure the sustainability of food bank operations.
Importance of Montana Food Banks
Montana food banks play a crucial role in the fight against hunger and food insecurity. They provide essential services to individuals and families who might otherwise go without adequate nutrition. Food banks help bridge the gap for those experiencing economic hardships, job loss, or insufficient fixed incomes, ensuring they have access to necessary food supplies.
The impact of food banks extends beyond immediate food relief. By alleviating hunger, food banks also contribute to better health outcomes, improved academic performance in children, and greater economic stability within communities. They advocate for long-term solutions to food insecurity through policy changes and increased participation in public nutrition programs, aiming for a future where no Montanan has to worry about their next meal.
By supporting food banks, communities help foster an environment where everyone has the opportunity to thrive, highlighting the essential role these organizations play in maintaining the social and economic fabric of Montana.