RESOURCES IF YOU NEED THEM!! a) www.FoodPantries.org b) Txt 1-800-548-6479 with your zip code for free food locations c) www.FreeFood.org (enter your location) d) freedge.org/locations/ e) Call 211, in many states they can help you find shelter, food, and clothing, f) www.FindHelp.org g) Check with your local churches and schools. Many of them know about food resources. h) If you have a school-aged child in need of breakfast and lunch this summer, simply text “FOOD” to 304304, and receive a message back with a location closest to where they can get free meals
I went to the food bank when my kids were younger. I remember going once and they only gave me a small ham and 4 cases of canned cubed potatoes. I always felt like such a failure because everyday for 3 months after preschool I would bake my 3 yr old son fried potatoes for lunch. He is 19 and one of his best memories is eating fried potatoes after preschool. Anything given with love ….. ❤
@@verlindaallen3335 nobody failed them. He was fed, it was a fond memory.I needed to get out of my head and focus on what was important. There was no failure. He has a happy memory from that time. Sheesh…
WOW, some of the comments!!! I have SO many thoughts. First, Carolina, thank you for your ongoing outreach. I volunteer at a small church food pantry. We rely on parishioner donations, usable but unsaleable produce from an upscale market, fresh organic veggies from the garden on church grounds and day old bread from Panera. We do not give out expired or moldy food! I'm sad some of you hve experienced this. Hunger is real and continues. We are very busy every Thursday. We can only give what we get, and despite giving our donors a detailed list of requested and needed items, we don't get them. These days we don't get enough. We have NO control, ZERO, over the donations we receive. Today, we got a case of broken eggs from an upscale market, 24 dozen, only 4 usable eggs. After we closed, a doctor, who is QUITE generous, brought 4 big boxes: 1 of frozen meat 😊 and 3 full of junk (minus 6 lbs of oats). He asked for our wish list, and refuses to shop from it. If and when you are able, please donate healthy foods. Make a pot of soup and homemade bread and feed someone. Give the guy on the corner applesauce, a banana, a sandwich and a reusable water bottle full of h2o. Help a neighbor. Someone you know is hungry. Do you know rich folks? Call them and ask them to donate food and or money. Ask your store mgr if they donate (here they do not!). Collect food at work, in your bldg, at your church, gym, salon, from family, friends and neighbors. Volunteer. DO SOMETHING to feed someone!!! Be the change you want to see in the world. KINDNESSMATTERS!
New subscriber!! I had to pause the video because I got excited when you said you used to live in the Farmington area. We're in the Poplar Bluff area of Missouri, so I thought that was super-neat! Ok...back to the video! 💕
I was embarrassed to go , but now I’m very grateful and it really helps us get by and they’ve started giving paper plates and feminine products, which is awesome because I have 3 daughters, God is so Good
I just found your channel and greatly enjoy you. You are so upbeat, creative and inspirational. You're making the best of your situation! You should be so proud of yourself.
I'll forever be grateful to you for sharing your ideas, views, wonderful recipes and awesome personality. Not to mention the fact that you're so helpful about taking the stigma of going to food banks, getting help, in our case, EBT. Anyway thank you Carolina !🥰🥰☕☕☕
Food banks in my area have improved so much. Twenty years ago I remember receiving cake mix that was 15 years expired and whipped topping that had dried out into almost a Styrofoam disk. 😂. We'd just eat any of it that we weren't afraid would send us to the hospital. lol. My family was able to do without any assistance for many years (and gave quite a bit to charities at the time) but a lay-off and increasing living costs have brought us back. I honestly have cried over the amazing items my family has received. I don't know what we'd do without the assistance.
I remember after my son was born I could no longer work my husband was in college and we needed help. As you said I swallowed my pride went to get food stamps they made me feel more worthless then I already felt. Do yo have a car? Sell it,it was broken and had money to fix. Then sell it. Do you have a house phone? Than get rid of it and save that money,this would leave me as a new mother without reaching out for help. I did however get rid of the broke down car which cost me $40.00 to have then get. They told me however that my child could have formula but as his parents we were out of luck. First and last time going for food stamps. After my second child I was introduced to food bank what a difference, they were a life saver. Bless food banks.
We have a food bank here that provides breakfast and lunch during the week and you can get groceries there. They do free hair cuts every year. They do holiday food pickup. They do holiday stuff and back to school stuff. They don't ask where you're from family size nothing. No questions at all
My church does the same thing. No paper work, no income requirement etc. The coordinator will just ask where the person lives their name, to get to know them. We are a small church, about 40 active members and the amount of people coming to the pantry has doubled in the last year. The big want is toilet paper, it is very expensive. It’s a blessing for those who come.
I have never used a food bank. My parents never used a food bank, but they put out a huge garden every year and mom would can, freeze and preserve all summer. She bartered homemade noodles for eggs, etc. Probably hundreds of quarts every year. Daddy always bought sides or whole beef and they would cut and package. Dad also would buy carts of dented cans and we kids got pretty good at figuring out what was in them. We only ate out a few times a year. Not much in the way of snacks or treats, but we never went hungry. Some nights it was fried squirrel or lake fish or rabbits, but we had our fill. Daddy worked hard to keep his family fed. Now...I donate to food banks and homeless missions for meals. There are not the opportunities to hunt, forage, and even fish like when I grew up. More people live in urban areas than not. I donate so that others less fortunate than I , don't go hungry. It's a crime that children especially go hungry in the most developed country in the world. I DONATE SO OTHERS CAN THRIVE. No judgements here!!!
Dear Mama Bird - Thank you for sharing your food bank experience. I am elderly, receive food stamps but I still go to the local food pantry occasionally. It does help me to supplement my grocery budget. Seems the food stamps don't go as far as they used to. I am grateful that I did stock up when the food stamps went further. But, in spite of that, and I do eat out of my pantry, I still need the occasional boost of food bank food. Bless you and your family and best wishes on your goal of owning your own homestead. Love, Love, Love, your channel and your food preparations. Keep up the great channel.
I remember our first time at the food bank.The elementary school my kids went to had a Christmas food pick up for those who used free or reduced lunch. My husband and I decided to try it out. However we did not discuss who would go. After I put the kids on the bus I went down. As I waited in line one of the volunteers shouted oh My someone just brought a school bus. I looked out the window there was my husband getting off the bus to get the food.( He just got a job as a school bus driver ) We where so pleased in what we got that I continued to go. However that was the last time my husband brought the bus
I love your name. I am disabled and visually impaired. I can't drive so I can't go to food banks. One of the food banks in my town will deliver if you call ahead every week. I'm so thankful for the help. I know some people look down on it but, I can't worry about that. I do want I need to get by.
I have never used a food bank, but I have volunteered at one. It focused on helping people until they got food stamps or people who had a short time emergency like grandparents taking care of grandkids suddenly. It was not for repeat customers. I do remember as a child some times supper was cabbage with a tiny bit of meat only for flavor. There were tomato and macaroni nights too. I did learn to share food at church dinners, too. In college I always looked for the free food events to make ends meet, too. Anyone can hit hard times. We all should work together so every one can at least have enough to eat.
Yes sometimes food box handed out is already spoiled. ,food is in poor condition, mold on beets & sweet potatoes, cans of sardines in tomato sauce. Tuna that looked like crumbles of moist wheat bread, more liquid than tuna. Horrible. I told my husband I felt so sorry for the families with children. Not any thing received would be good for an adul or children. This in Southwest Iowa.
Congrat on volunteering.I think you will feel so blessed doing that. I remember the first time we went to a foodbank we got Big Foot soup by Liptons,canned beans,a box of kraft dinner and licorice candies.And a box of stale opened crackers...We were grateful for anything and my husband and I still chuckle about the Big Foot noodle soup.😂😅
I will occasionally visit my local food bank, but they give you way too many processed foods in boxes that my family just can't eat. I will give whatever I can't use away to a family of 7 that I know. I used to go to a pantry that was a shop for yourself in another county. Unfortunately, I crossed the county border and they are pretty strict about just serving their own county. I have looked into other pantries in my area, but they are just the same as the one right near me. I am glad that others have good places to go for help. We all could use a little help now and again. Thanks for sharing, Carolina! I am happy that someone is actively taking the stigma away from going to the food bank.
I volunteer for a food pantry. Fresh food is a logistical problem. We are the only branch of our organization that does fresh food. It’s delivered and unloaded the day of delivery. It’s also very expensive. We are in the process of having to turn people away because the demand and costs have gone up and donations have gone down. Stories of international students abusing food banks and pantries isn’t helping. We do the best we can with what we have. At the end of the day, you just have to eat what’s provided or go hungry. That’s how I was raised.
I don't go to the food bank because I have a friend who goes all the time and gives me what she doesn't want. So between what I can and what she shares with me our household will never go hungry. Blessings sweet lady!!
First time I went to food bank was probably 25 years ago when I had a young child. Back then they didn't give you a lot of choices - just a box of random stuff- take it or else. It was hard to make meals out of stuff. I like that now more places let you pick what your family will eat. I even remember one volunteer got mad when I handed back the zuchinni because I already had tons of that from the plants in my yard and didn't need it. I ate zuchinni everyday that summer - stirfried, stuffed and baked, zuchinni bread, fritters, tempura, in soups. I have learned to not plant so much zuchinni and do more squash varieties now.... @Carolina. You will get hooked on volunteering. I have so much fun at my food rescue. We always have a circle before distribution and share roses and thorns in our lives. It is so fun to get to know the other volunteers better.
Owning your home isn't all sunshine and roses ... Believe me sometimes I wish I was renting when big appliances break like your fridge, stove, or water heater ... Just recently I had to replace all the electrical on my pole to my house and cost me over $6000 ... I've owned my home for almost 11 years and it's a constant fix and repair and when you don't have alot of money it's not easy to come up with it to fix things ... I'm not trying to discourage anyone from owning but if your happy in your current rental and like you are allowed to have animals and a garden maybe take a long look before buying because it would be nice to not be responsible when all those things go wrong and are big ticket expenses ... And I don't have a mortgage ... My house is paid off and it's still hard to try to save any money.
Yes money goes into your home and improves it and it's value. Renting is literally throwing away money. You get no investment back. I'd take having to fix my own home over having a landlord on call to fix things. Most of the time they go the cheap route and barley fix it anyway. Thanks for sharing your experience!
We have some very generous food banks here in the city now and in the past I have had some experiences where the food they give you isn’t helpful too. It’s so hard to admit that you need help and then to be given a few tins of vegetables and frozen bread, just breaks your heart because by the time you reach out for help you need so much more , like drinks, sauces, spices, cleaning stuff, toilet paper/ toothpaste because you have gone so long with out to stretch your budget so I agree, now is the time to use the food bank, support them too when you can by donating useful things for families, even pet food would be great, it really saves so much from going to waste, I’m a huge advocate for this and that’s why when I found you, mumma, speaking about this and getting rid of the guilt people feel, I start to follow and share your videos, keep up the great work. Hope ya cook soon (live) so I can get some sleep down here in Australia 🇦🇺 I’m enjoying a day off tomorrow for the first time in a while and will be cleaning and thrift shopping with my kids ❤❤
Almost all of the items at food banks were destined for the landfill before they were donated. I used to volunteer at one. Now, I use them often to supplement our groceries and they really help us live a better life. Please do not be ashamed if using them. So much of the food gets thrown out at the end of the donation day.
Thank you for sharing this!! I'm doing a series on reading others food bank stories! I'd love to.hear more about your experience If you'd be willing to share! Mamabairdspantry@gmail.com
You’ll be such a good resource person at the food bank. Your channel can help people figure out what to do with what they get and you’ll be on hand with your good advice and cheerful support if people want to try something new. I’m excited for you and the food bank and look forward to hearing about your experiences there.
Our food bank is a hit/miss deal. Sometimes we will get food that we can eat and more so we share with the neighbors, other times it will be trash bags filled with moldy bread... Living on a fixed social security income is getting more challenging every day.
Foodbanks in australia you have to pay a portion of the cost price of what it costs in supermarkets, and there getting more and more expensive. Also the area im in they dont have any cold or frozen items.
Hello Carolina it is so true about the inflation and the food budget not stetching as far. My kids are always wanting premade frozen microwave things and I tell them look we have an $750 food budget and i have to make that stretch when you are feeding teenagers that eat 12 times a day or so it seems they eat so much we stock up on some of the cheaper lunch items like mac n cheese, cup o noodles and sandwich stuff but i will be glad when they head back to school and get free breakfast and lunch then i can start stocking the house back up. Hope you have a great week.
So awesome.... and i would love to hear the story about you moving to Montana and how you met your husband... Our local food bank has income restrictions, but that is okay as we do fine.. now back when the C19 was around,every one got to go one time and holy moly they gave us a ton of stuff it was such blessing.. i enjoy your videos so much..
I’m so proud of you speaking out for the food banks! I believe that no matter what your income is you should check out the food bank! The only shame involved is what should be felt in regards to food waste and disregard of our resources all for consumerism! The food banks depend on grants for funding based on the number of residents they service in the community, so sign up even if you do not need it! Also some get resources from farms and industries that have bulk items, so if you have the time to save that food, DO IT! Be an active part is feeding those who need it and saving the excess our country fills our landfills with! BRAVO MAMA B! You are doing exactly what you should be doing! People get it twisted! Volunteer at a food bank! The gratitude is real! The need is real! And there are people who serve others selflessly by running those banks! Use them!!
No no no, DO NOT SIGN UP FOR THE FOOD BANK IF YOU DO NOT NEED IT......we do not need any dishonesty involved. Nor should you use a food bank if you do not have food insecurities.
@@lindab7384 well, that’s a given! But if you have a hard time paying any bill do it! I took my girlfriend to a Spokane food bank and even though I was from out of town, they encouraged me to sign up because the # of people that use it determined the funding they receive. So, of course if you have no need, then donate to it! A tight budget qualifies you and every family should have enough to also save for emergencies because they WILL happen. Do not be unaware of the food waste in this country, it is 30 to 40% and $161 billion dollars a year. Some of that is distributed through our food banks.
This is a really good video of you speaking from your heart and telling your story! You are reaching and encouraging so many people. I’m very proud of you, Lina! I’m so happy you have decided to volunteer at the food pantry where you can do so much to help others figure out what to do with what they get! You have a generous heart!
My very small hometown has a food bank and they really take care of our community. They have a thrift store and a restaurant that are run by volunteers and any profits go back into the food bank. They do a community food drive twice a year. They will post on FB if they are in desperate need of a specific item or type of item and the community takes care of it for them. Before Covid I was a couponer and you could get so much stuff for free or very cheap. I donated all of my excess personal care, cleaning and laundry care items. I was happy to be able to help them in the way that I could even though I was lucky and never needed to use the food bank.
I go to the food pantry. (2) actually. One is a drive up, by appointment only and they give good stuff. For the month. The other one I use you can go 3x per month and that’s where I get veggies and eggs and milk. Not only does it feed me, my boyfriend, our kids but it also feeds both of our parents. I started stocking up two years ago bc prices were skyrocketing. Ssdi pays barely enough to live. The people that go to the food bank 3x a month are mostly senior citizens and ppl on ssdi. They are wonderful. This week I ended up with chicken gizzards. (Our dogs will live dehydrated gizzards in their food) and I know our cats would enjoy it too. ❤ we cant be picky. I have received a 6# prime rib, 10 lb hams, chicken breasts that are 1.5# each. Our homes are stocked and it’s a blessing.
i'm so happy you have found a food bank that helps you so much, here where i am, you can only go once a month and you only get a small amount of food to maybe feed a young child for about a week and they do not give out dairy, meat or fruits or veggies hardly ever, meat and dairy is never, fruits and veggies are only the ones that are almost spoiled that the grocery store gets rid of.....we are doing ok, but definitely can't afford to do a stockpile with our family of 7 and the cost of food....i am moving to our forever home in a few months and i have gathered all the canning and pressure canning supplies i need (still working on jars, lids and rings) so that maybe (crossing my fingers) i can buy extra stuff and can it for storage.....the plan is to not touch the stuff for one year and then start using as a working pantry that i can rotate through and keep a stockpile...i know i will not have a years worth of food, but my goal right now is at least 3 to 6 months of everything we eat or pantry staples so we have at least a little leeway if something bad were to happen....i'm learning to cook from scratch and trying very hard to get my children to stop being so picky (i literally have 7 meals i rotate through because hubby and kids are that picky.....no beans, meat mixed into potatoes because they will not eat it separately, next to no veggies, but win for me, they are eating more fruits! but a bag of 10 apples cost me $8.99 last grocery order 😳...) any advice to get the kids to eat new foods? one has what i believe is a texture issue, but the others are just picky......before hubby and i got together, my older kids eat everything, hubby is plain jane meat and potato kinda guy, so now my younger kiddies are following his lead, no salads, no tacos, no sandwiches, no casseroles and one doesn't eat PIZZA!! like what?? lol.....pls, this momma needs HELP!! i worry if things get worse they will not eat anything i can afford to buy to stretch meals, i'm already struggling to purchase the amount of meat for 7 people when you can't stretch it in a casserole or something!! and just a final note, we do not get food stamps or other programs here, we are on our own
In the old days, there was one dinner and we werenot allowed to leave the table until our plate was clear of food. I cannot tell you how many jars of ketchup I must have consumed!!!
There should never be shame about food banks. Anything because you or your family needs to eat, kids need to eat. Not everyone has the need for going to a food bank but they may have the ability to make something to help an elderly neighbor or a family with children. You bake bread, cookies, make a casserole share with a family in your area. Anything helps as sharing is carrying, and those who need the help tou can always help a neighbor by cooking as alot of people don't know how or are unable to cook. God bless Carolina for your ability to teach others about how to survive.
We have alot of good food banks here where I live. I go to one every Sunday. I get all my fliyr, sugar, and cooking oil there. They also give out a bag of laundry detergent once a month with paper towels and toilet paper. I also get one meat item and two bags of produce. Then another bag has can good vegetables, pasta noodles, nuts tuna. Then I go to a food pantry at a church and you can go in and shop. I get one bread item, one sweet item, two meat items and fresh produce. I also visit a church pantry where you can go in and shop once a month. They also have clothing items. They are always generous as to what they let me have. All this helps so much to supplement our groceries bill since I am unable to work and have to live off my husband's income.
I love that you are so passionate about things that are important to you. You have inspired so many of us!! Thank you for sharing your life experiences and lessons.
I now volunteer at my churches food bank, and we get to pick out some food before working. I have volunteered at food banks before and have needed food from them. I enjoy helping and appreciated being helped when I needed it.
I'm addicted to pressure canning too. No one around me understands why I find all that work is so satisfying to me. I learned about a food giveaway (monthly) where a church has a giveaway for foods that are left over from local food banks. If it wasn't for the church the leftover food would be sent to farmers to feed the pigs or sent to a landfill. It just seems like a crime to throwaway food in a landfill. The one downside of this food giveaway is that you have to process food, especially any produce right away. So I water bath and pressure can foods. I try to create shelf stable foods over freezer items, just in case the electric power goes out.
My church has a food bank for our parrish. It's wonderful I don't use I just donate back to school stuff. It's amazing my friend runs it. I help after mass if she drives home.
While filing for disability I was on food stamps and could go to the food bank I miss that. I do have a garden I am fighting the dear to keep it but was able to get two banana peppers two squash and one zucchini yum
So excited to find your channel. I run the food programs for a local non-profit in South Texas and we just recently partnered with the regional food bank so I'm looking for resources for those who come and get food from us twice a month. I've been thinking about making videos with recipes using the things we distribute and may still do that but thank you for helping people to try and get past the stigma of visiting a food bank. We just want to help!
That is awesome! If you want to start up a channel to make videos to help, let me know and I can help you out! Thanks for helping your local community!
I really appreciate you talking about the stigma of food banks.We went when my boys were little very occasionally and I felt so ashamed..But I swelled my pride and even got some diapers etc.. (This was years ago.I know they give a lot more fruit and veggies now.) I love watching your meals that you make from the food bank. I would love to hear about how you and husband met.What an adventure to move somewhere without knowing a soul.Way to go!! I think your cook experience makes your channel so great because you know a lot of cooking techniques. Thank you for your great channel.💗🇨🇦
We got the old school government cheese. Lol. I started food banking about 2 years ago, but got discouraged with the rotten and inedible food I received. I’m so happy I returned and tried again for folks. Found some amazing resources and friends along the way. ❤
I just love your channel so much! It's so nice to see everyone has hard times. None of us are immune. Even though we are fine right now, I absolutely would go to the food bank if I needed it. That's what it's for. If you can save money by getting food you can use that money to help with another bill like the electric bill!
I live in a tiny town in the tiny state of Vermont. I had never been to a food bank before the pandemic but I started getting a box weekly a few years ago for a short time. I felt guilty so I started volunteering there and have ever since. I don't feel guilty now bringing home food because I help out a lot. I'm happy to hear you will be volunteering too. It feels good to help others. We don't have the kind of food you have, but it gives people the basics, which is important.😊 Thanks for sharing your experiences with us.👍
I’m sitting in a food bank line right now !this starts on 550 Am on Tuesday this is every. Tuesday by the time it’s 10 am there is like 500 cars here it’s no joke
My husband and I have seen this coming for a very long time. We are a two income family that was never able to save a penny. We made enough just to pay bills. Its been rough. Our pantry was not - we never had any extra food in the house. No treats, no restaurants, no vacations etc. I took on an extra job over the week-ends. We both worked insane hours only to survive. I started a huge garden and canned. I learned to buy specials or reduced items. That's how we lived. Services were not available in our area. I just worry about the situation out there. When the food banks begin to dry up what is going to happen to people that need the help. Take my word for it. Just think forward - think about what you would do if services are not available or if food banks are being reduced due to shortages. Trust me I'm not judging anyone. Just do what you have to do. Blessing to all.
No, you make a great point! Learning how to can and preserve food when it's in season, is a skill that'll save you and your children's lives someday! Thank you for taking the time to remind everyone to think forward and prepare as much as possible!
Lately I've been going to the food pantry weekly, mostly for the produce and baked goods. Our regional food bank distributes A LOT of fresh produce to the food pantries.
@@pennynickels5216 I know. The region I'm in is mostly suburban with a lot of agriculture on the edges, so the regional food bank gets quite a bit donated directly from farms.
I don't remember going to food banks growing up, but I do remember getting commodity cheese and periodically getting food stamps. (Anyone remember when the food stamps were paper coupons you had to tear out in front of the cashier?) I swear I don't understand why people try to shame others who need a little help with food... what's the big deal? I don't recall any stories about people being shamed for going to the grocery market, what's the difference, the building? Besides that, who's business is it anyway? I can assure you the sacrifices you and Husband are making so your kids can have their Mom at home caring, cooking, guiding, teaching and raising them... are well worth it! So many kids are being raised by the system and that is sad.
Some food banks give out the most random, useless things. I went to one that gave me a zip lock bag of sugar packets, and already rotten vegetables and molding bread. What are people supposed to do with that? That was a long time ago, I do see that food banks are giving out decent things now most of the time. I think a lot of it has to do with grocery stores donating to food banks. Also, it’s perfectly ok to travel around to local places to different food banks in your area.
I recently went for the first time because of some massive medical bills and the repayment of my student loans starting up at the same time (oof.) We burned through savings trying to get it all set, but I made the decision to check out what was available. I found out that as an enrolled tribal citizen (I'm Eastern Cherokee,) I was eligible for a certain amount of food anyway. Wouldn't have known that otherwise, but it's a government agreement between the Eastern Band and the US, and since I live in CT now, the nearest food pantry takes over.
My first time was February 2023, I only went for 3 months. Would like to go again, but the lines are really long, n sometimes it’s not worth it but the first time I went, they prayed for me n I cried 😢
We didn’t get assistance when I was growing up, because my dad worked as a case manager for food stamps so it was somewhat shamed upon. Now it’s different.
I’m reading the comments and I see a lot of people commenting about the wonderful food banks that they have in their area well in my area I think there a hidden gem or something I’ve actually never seen one. I moved to this town just over a year ago and I have yet to see a food bank. I don’t know of any churches that have them nobody advertises them. I do know one that is for veterans only but that’s it. It’s really sad. There’s so many poor people here.
Google blessing boxes, food give aways, little free pantry, call your local school and ask if they know where you can get help. Dial 211 I believe its united way and they can direct you to resources.
In Texas you can dial 211 and they will send you a list of local foodbanks in your area, along with any places that can assist with utility/rent bills. There's a website for Texas as well. Since the emergency covid food stamp funds were removed my benefits went from over $200 a month to $23 a month and that's no joke. That hit me hard. I am unable to be able to stand in food lines or mobile pantries and I was surprised to find that if you are unable to get out to food banks there's a service that drop off food at your door. I am so grateful for this service. Also- some people trying to use ethics as a ground to complain should stop being hypocrites and realize the food is essentially trash if no one uses it. And we're eating the dusty old food they forgot was in their own cabinet.
I'd love to hear the story about why you and your family moved to Montana!! I live in Eastern NC, and am finding myself needing some help with groceries as the economy is pinching my budget pretty hard. How can I find my local food bank?
I go and volunteer at one tomorrow I go and help the people that are in need there's nothing wrong with getting help I get for my self as well because it's hard for everyone right now
There's no shame in my game going to the food bank. I don't get the meats and veggies like yours give but I'm grateful for what I do get. Don't qualifie for food stamps. Don't know why I live on SSI. Oh well I do the best I can do and I'm good.
I am a single woman with no help. No family, and my friends can't help. I dealth with food insecurity this entire past year and finally realized what was happening and why I was so stressed all the time. I'm going to go, I don't need a lot I just don't want t go hungry.
Sweetheart I am disable and 72 I draw 23 dollars a month and I have to go to food banks since I lost my husband of 45 years I couldn't make it without their help
Food and the cost of living has gotten so high. I used to cost $150 per month for groceries for a single person. Now is $300 or a bit more. It must now cost rent or mortgage payment for groceries with a whole family household. I make my budgets and discount stores seriously and food pantry is so helpful for extras.
I so agree with you regarding picking up food that is sparse, receive things that you cannot use (that you then give back to them), and worse is the fresh things that are already too old to really eat. Vegetables that would need to be cut to a million pieces to FINALLY get an edible piece. I am ashamed to give this food to people, personally I find it disrespectful, but it is what we are told to do at the food bank. "they will be grateful, better than starving" I am told. NO, SORRY NOT TRUE, I SAY, I would think it would make them feel "is this all I am worth to you". Sadly, if people do not donate to the food banks and consistently, it can be a true disappointment for people in need. Also, there ARE people that use the food bank that should not be, that do not have food insecurities, and instead store it for a later time, or see what they can get and the over abundance they give to their family or friends that also are not needy. When people do this, that means there is less for the people who indeed need it. NEVER, EVER be ashamed to use your local food bank when you are IN NEED. People are there to help YOU, some have been WHERE YOU ARE. Believe me, we have heard many unfortunate stories. You are not alone. Please, if you are watching Mama Baird's or any other Food Pantry Videos and YOU ARE NOT food insecure, plan your time of giving. If you can give weekly, please do that. Monthly? do that too! Just give, and don't raid your pantry and give items that have expired and non edible, it is hurtful to receive these. If you wouldn't eat it, neither would someone else. Give, it makes your heart feel good! Good Luck Mama Baird, look forward to a better future! :)
I'm pretty fortunate that we don't need the food bank very often just when an occasional curve ball is thrown our way. I used to be a major couponer and still use them when needed. I have a stockpile of laundry supplies that will last me probably another 6 months or so. When I started my current job we got bonuses every 3 months first bonus I bought a small deep freezer, used the second one to fill it full of meat for my family I have tried to keep it at least half full but life sometimes slips you curve balls and we have need extra help here a there. Our local food banks are nothing like yours wish they were we get two to three prefilled boxes of food and sometimes we can eat a lot of it sure to allergies. So we have these blessings boxes around town we just take what we can't eat and put in there for someone else who might need it.
This past year, before the summer, I would go to the food pantry regularly. Until one day I was spoken to rudely by one of the older volunteers there. I felt so humiliated. I said I would never go back there again. Now our rent has been increased and there will be nothing left for groceries. I'm a stay at home mom and I homeschool my children. Now I've been trying to decide if I should go back to using the food pantry regularly, or try to find a night job. I haven't worked outside the home in over 16 years! Yikes.
Carolina-i would love to hear how u came to Montana. we go to get free produce every week. last week we got a pineapple, mangoes,pears and avocados and a big bag of mushrooms. i tell u...once the company my man worked at-laid off everyone. we didnt get our unemployments checks. we got forgotten for two months.we would go on the highway with our kids to collect soda cans. it was such a hard time. no one knows the other persons plight! we were so glad when our unemployment check finally got to our house. we were so happy to get government cheese and the block of butter. love your stories.
I also really enjoy your recipes because I am not good at changing things up. And I hate for anything to get wasted! And I want to learn to can so bad but I am scared!! Lol!!
That stigma is there because food banks, like any other charity, depend on having more givers than takers. Food banks and soup kitchens are struggling with ithe highest ever demand and decreased donations. Take a look online at food banks begging for donations while saying they are at "crisis level". There are even those closing doors to some. Not commenting on any individual need, just why a "stigma" exists.
That's a fair point. I do feel it has a lot to do with people accepting help and those who think help is "charity" and look down on those who need help. Thus making the stigma that it's shameful to need to use a food bank.
I'm a veteran and I have issues!!! I'm not able to remain gainfully employed because of it!!! I recieve foodstamps and have used the local food bank several times, anybody who makes you feel bad about trying to feed yourself is somebody you don't wanna know!!!
Thank you for sharing your story. If you know there’s food being thrown away, why not go the last day and get what’s left? It’s better than seeing it destroyed. Again, thank you, sweet lady.
I’ve volunteered at food banks. The state I’m from have a great state wide food warehouse that supplements what they receive in local donations. They want people to use their resources. In 2020 Mackenzie Scott gave our state food bank 9 million dollars. They have been doing a good service with that money.
Nobody should feel bad, berated, less than or inadequate. 1000's of families are broken right now they need help urgently. People are ignorante everybody needs nutritious food.
Hi..Hi..Hi Carolina 🥰! I just started to watch your video. YES, of course; we would like to hear why you moved to Montana ☺️☺️! Back to your video. P.S. I LuvLuvLuv your top!! Is that a Calla Lilly beside you?
RESOURCES IF YOU NEED THEM!!
a) www.FoodPantries.org
b) Txt 1-800-548-6479 with your zip code for free food locations
c) www.FreeFood.org (enter your location)
d) freedge.org/locations/
e) Call 211, in many states they can help you find shelter, food, and clothing,
f) www.FindHelp.org
g) Check with your local churches and schools. Many of them know about food resources.
h) If you have a school-aged child in need of breakfast and lunch this summer, simply text “FOOD” to 304304, and receive a message back with a location closest to where they can get free meals
Do you have email? I have an idea....
@@pennynickels5216 mamabairdspantry@gmail.com
I went to the food bank when my kids were younger. I remember going once and they only gave me a small ham and 4 cases of canned cubed potatoes. I always felt like such a failure because everyday for 3 months after preschool I would bake my 3 yr old son fried potatoes for lunch. He is 19 and one of his best memories is eating fried potatoes after preschool. Anything given with love ….. ❤
You weren't a failure, the system failed you!
@@carolynmills513 not at all. My point was that as parents we worry about the wrong things.
Exactly mama❤
@carolynmills513 baby's daddy also failed them. I understand my 3 babies were abandoned by their father...
@@verlindaallen3335 nobody failed them. He was fed, it was a fond memory.I needed to get out of my head and focus on what was important. There was no failure. He has a happy memory from that time. Sheesh…
WOW, some of the comments!!! I have SO many thoughts. First, Carolina, thank you for your ongoing outreach. I volunteer at a small church food pantry. We rely on parishioner donations, usable but unsaleable produce from an upscale market, fresh organic veggies from the garden on church grounds and day old bread from Panera. We do not give out expired or moldy food! I'm sad some of you hve experienced this.
Hunger is real and continues. We are very busy every Thursday. We can only give what we get, and despite giving our donors a detailed list of requested and needed items, we don't get them. These days we don't get enough. We have NO control, ZERO, over the donations we receive. Today, we got a case of broken eggs from an upscale market, 24 dozen, only 4 usable eggs. After we closed, a doctor, who is QUITE generous, brought 4 big boxes: 1 of frozen meat 😊 and 3 full of junk (minus 6 lbs of oats). He asked for our wish list, and refuses to shop from it.
If and when you are able, please donate healthy foods. Make a pot of soup and homemade bread and feed someone. Give the guy on the corner applesauce, a banana, a sandwich and a reusable water bottle full of h2o. Help a neighbor. Someone you know is hungry. Do you know rich folks? Call them and ask them to donate food and or money. Ask your store mgr if they donate (here they do not!). Collect food at work, in your bldg, at your church, gym, salon, from family, friends and neighbors. Volunteer. DO SOMETHING to feed someone!!! Be the change you want to see in the world. KINDNESSMATTERS!
Thank you! I agree 100%!
New subscriber!! I had to pause the video because I got excited when you said you used to live in the Farmington area. We're in the Poplar Bluff area of Missouri, so I thought that was super-neat! Ok...back to the video! 💕
Welcome!! That's too funny! My dad currently lives in Dexter, MO! Thanks for stopping by and being here!
I was embarrassed to go , but now I’m very grateful and it really helps us get by and they’ve started giving paper plates and feminine products, which is awesome because I have 3 daughters, God is so Good
I just found your channel and greatly enjoy you. You are so upbeat, creative and inspirational. You're making the best of your situation! You should be so proud of yourself.
I'll forever be grateful to you for sharing your ideas, views, wonderful recipes and awesome personality. Not to mention the fact that you're so helpful about taking the stigma of going to food banks, getting help, in our case, EBT. Anyway thank you Carolina !🥰🥰☕☕☕
Thank you as well Patti!!
Food banks in my area have improved so much. Twenty years ago I remember receiving cake mix that was 15 years expired and whipped topping that had dried out into almost a Styrofoam disk. 😂. We'd just eat any of it that we weren't afraid would send us to the hospital. lol. My family was able to do without any assistance for many years (and gave quite a bit to charities at the time) but a lay-off and increasing living costs have brought us back. I honestly have cried over the amazing items my family has received. I don't know what we'd do without the assistance.
I remember after my son was born I could no longer work my husband was in college and we needed help.
As you said I swallowed my pride went to get food stamps they made me feel more worthless then I already felt. Do yo have a car? Sell it,it was broken and had money to fix. Then sell it. Do you have a house phone? Than get rid of it and save that money,this would leave me as a new mother without reaching out for help.
I did however get rid of the broke down car which cost me $40.00 to have then get. They told me however that my child could have formula but as his parents we were out of luck. First and last time going for food stamps.
After my second child I was introduced to food bank what a difference, they were a life saver. Bless food banks.
We have a food bank here that provides breakfast and lunch during the week and you can get groceries there. They do free hair cuts every year. They do holiday food pickup. They do holiday stuff and back to school stuff. They don't ask where you're from family size nothing. No questions at all
My church does the same thing. No paper work, no income requirement etc. The coordinator will just ask where the person lives their name, to get to know them. We are a small church, about 40 active members and the amount of people coming to the pantry has doubled in the last year. The big want is toilet paper, it is very expensive. It’s a blessing for those who come.
I have never used a food bank. My parents never used a food bank, but they put out a huge garden every year and mom would can, freeze and preserve all summer. She bartered homemade noodles for eggs, etc. Probably hundreds of quarts every year. Daddy always bought sides or whole beef and they would cut and package. Dad also would buy carts of dented cans and we kids got pretty good at figuring out what was in them. We only ate out a few times a year. Not much in the way of snacks or treats, but we never went hungry. Some nights it was fried squirrel or lake fish or rabbits, but we had our fill. Daddy worked hard to keep his family fed.
Now...I donate to food banks and homeless missions for meals. There are not the opportunities to hunt, forage, and even fish like when I grew up. More people live in urban areas than not. I donate so that others less fortunate than I , don't go hungry. It's a crime that children especially go hungry in the most developed country in the world. I DONATE SO OTHERS CAN THRIVE. No judgements here!!!
Thank you
Thanks for sharing your story. I have loved finding your channel and the light you shine.
Dear Mama Bird - Thank you for sharing your food bank experience. I am elderly, receive food stamps but I still go to the local food pantry occasionally. It does help me to supplement my grocery budget. Seems the food stamps don't go as far as they used to. I am grateful that I did stock up when the food stamps went further. But, in spite of that, and I do eat out of my pantry, I still need the occasional boost of food bank food. Bless you and your family and best wishes on your goal of owning your own homestead. Love, Love, Love, your channel and your food preparations. Keep up the great channel.
I remember our first time at the food bank.The elementary school my kids went to had a Christmas food pick up for those who used free or reduced lunch. My husband and I decided to try it out. However we did not discuss who would go. After I put the kids on the bus I went down. As I waited in line one of the volunteers shouted oh My someone just brought a school bus. I looked out the window there was my husband getting off the bus to get the food.( He just got a job as a school bus driver )
We where so pleased in what we got that I continued to go. However that was the last time my husband brought the bus
I love your name. I am disabled and visually impaired.
I can't drive so I can't go to food banks. One of the food banks in my town will deliver if you call ahead every week.
I'm so thankful for the help.
I know some people look down on it but, I can't worry about that. I do want I need to get by.
I have never used a food bank, but I have volunteered at one. It focused on helping people until they got food stamps or people who had a short time emergency like grandparents taking care of grandkids suddenly. It was not for repeat customers. I do remember as a child some times supper was cabbage with a tiny bit of meat only for flavor. There were tomato and macaroni nights too. I did learn to share food at church dinners, too. In college I always looked for the free food events to make ends meet, too.
Anyone can hit hard times. We all should work together so every one can at least have enough to eat.
You do what you have to go.
Yes sometimes food box handed out is already spoiled. ,food is in poor condition, mold on beets & sweet potatoes, cans of sardines in tomato sauce. Tuna that looked like crumbles of moist wheat bread, more liquid than tuna. Horrible. I told my husband I felt so sorry for the families with children. Not any thing received would be good for an adul or children. This in Southwest Iowa.
Congrat on volunteering.I think you will feel so blessed doing that.
I remember the first time we went to a foodbank we got Big Foot soup by Liptons,canned beans,a box of kraft dinner and licorice candies.And a box of stale opened crackers...We were grateful for anything and my husband and I still chuckle about the Big Foot noodle soup.😂😅
I will occasionally visit my local food bank, but they give you way too many processed foods in boxes that my family just can't eat. I will give whatever I can't use away to a family of 7 that I know. I used to go to a pantry that was a shop for yourself in another county. Unfortunately, I crossed the county border and they are pretty strict about just serving their own county. I have looked into other pantries in my area, but they are just the same as the one right near me. I am glad that others have good places to go for help. We all could use a little help now and again. Thanks for sharing, Carolina! I am happy that someone is actively taking the stigma away from going to the food bank.
I volunteer for a food pantry. Fresh food is a logistical problem. We are the only branch of our organization that does fresh food. It’s delivered and unloaded the day of delivery. It’s also very expensive. We are in the process of having to turn people away because the demand and costs have gone up and donations have gone down. Stories of international students abusing food banks and pantries isn’t helping. We do the best we can with what we have. At the end of the day, you just have to eat what’s provided or go hungry. That’s how I was raised.
I don't go to the food bank because I have a friend who goes all the time and gives me what she doesn't want. So between what I can and what she shares with me our household will never go hungry. Blessings sweet lady!!
First time I went to food bank was probably 25 years ago when I had a young child. Back then they didn't give you a lot of choices - just a box of random stuff- take it or else. It was hard to make meals out of stuff. I like that now more places let you pick what your family will eat.
I even remember one volunteer got mad when I handed back the zuchinni because I already had tons of that from the plants in my yard and didn't need it. I ate zuchinni everyday that summer - stirfried, stuffed and baked, zuchinni bread, fritters, tempura, in soups. I have learned to not plant so much zuchinni and do more squash varieties now....
@Carolina. You will get hooked on volunteering. I have so much fun at my food rescue. We always have a circle before distribution and share roses and thorns in our lives. It is so fun to get to know the other volunteers better.
Owning your home isn't all sunshine and roses ... Believe me sometimes I wish I was renting when big appliances break like your fridge, stove, or water heater ... Just recently I had to replace all the electrical on my pole to my house and cost me over $6000 ... I've owned my home for almost 11 years and it's a constant fix and repair and when you don't have alot of money it's not easy to come up with it to fix things ... I'm not trying to discourage anyone from owning but if your happy in your current rental and like you are allowed to have animals and a garden maybe take a long look before buying because it would be nice to not be responsible when all those things go wrong and are big ticket expenses ... And I don't have a mortgage ... My house is paid off and it's still hard to try to save any money.
Yes money goes into your home and improves it and it's value. Renting is literally throwing away money. You get no investment back. I'd take having to fix my own home over having a landlord on call to fix things. Most of the time they go the cheap route and barley fix it anyway. Thanks for sharing your experience!
We have some very generous food banks here in the city now and in the past I have had some experiences where the food they give you isn’t helpful too. It’s so hard to admit that you need help and then to be given a few tins of vegetables and frozen bread, just breaks your heart because by the time you reach out for help you need so much more , like drinks, sauces, spices, cleaning stuff, toilet paper/ toothpaste because you have gone so long with out to stretch your budget so I agree, now is the time to use the food bank, support them too when you can by donating useful things for families, even pet food would be great, it really saves so much from going to waste, I’m a huge advocate for this and that’s why when I found you, mumma, speaking about this and getting rid of the guilt people feel, I start to follow and share your videos, keep up the great work. Hope ya cook soon (live) so I can get some sleep down here in Australia 🇦🇺 I’m enjoying a day off tomorrow for the first time in a while and will be cleaning and thrift shopping with my kids ❤❤
Almost all of the items at food banks were destined for the landfill before they were donated. I used to volunteer at one. Now, I use them often to supplement our groceries and they really help us live a better life. Please do not be ashamed if using them. So much of the food gets thrown out at the end of the donation day.
Thank you for sharing this!! I'm doing a series on reading others food bank stories! I'd love to.hear more about your experience If you'd be willing to share!
Mamabairdspantry@gmail.com
@@mamabairds yes! Gladly. I sent you an email
Yes, tell the full story of your move! Definitely the story of how you and hubby met!😊
You’ll be such a good resource person at the food bank. Your channel can help people figure out what to do with what they get and you’ll be on hand with your good advice and cheerful support if people want to try something new. I’m excited for you and the food bank and look forward to hearing about your experiences there.
Our food bank is a hit/miss deal. Sometimes we will get food that we can eat and more so we share with the neighbors, other times it will be trash bags filled with moldy bread... Living on a fixed social security income is getting more challenging every day.
Foodbanks in australia you have to pay a portion of the cost price of what it costs in supermarkets, and there getting more and more expensive. Also the area im in they dont have any cold or frozen items.
Thank goodness that there are genuinely good people out there.
Hello Carolina it is so true about the inflation and the food budget not stetching as far. My kids are always wanting premade frozen microwave things and I tell them look we have an $750 food budget and i have to make that stretch when you are feeding teenagers that eat 12 times a day or so it seems they eat so much we stock up on some of the cheaper lunch items like mac n cheese, cup o noodles and sandwich stuff but i will be glad when they head back to school and get free breakfast and lunch then i can start stocking the house back up. Hope you have a great week.
God bless you for your encouragement!
So awesome.... and i would love to hear the story about you moving to Montana and how you met your husband... Our local food bank has income restrictions, but that is okay as we do fine.. now back when the C19 was around,every one got to go one time and holy moly they gave us a ton of stuff it was such blessing.. i enjoy your videos so much..
I’m so proud of you speaking out for the food banks! I believe that no matter what your income is you should check out the food bank! The only shame involved is what should be felt in regards to food waste and disregard of our resources all for consumerism!
The food banks depend on grants for funding based on the number of residents they service in the community, so sign up even if you do not need it! Also some get resources from farms and industries that have bulk items, so if you have the time to save that food, DO IT! Be an active part is feeding those who need it and saving the excess our country fills our landfills with! BRAVO MAMA B! You are doing exactly what you should be doing! People get it twisted!
Volunteer at a food bank! The gratitude is real! The need is real! And there are people who serve others selflessly by running those banks! Use them!!
No no no, DO NOT SIGN UP FOR THE FOOD BANK IF YOU DO NOT NEED IT......we do not need any dishonesty involved. Nor should you use a food bank if you do not have food insecurities.
@@lindab7384 well, that’s a given! But if you have a hard time paying any bill do it! I took my girlfriend to a Spokane food bank and even though I was from out of town, they encouraged me to sign up because the # of people that use it determined the funding they receive. So, of course if you have no need, then donate to it! A tight budget qualifies you and every family should have enough to also save for emergencies because they WILL happen. Do not be unaware of the food waste in this country, it is 30 to 40% and $161 billion dollars a year. Some of that is distributed through our food banks.
This is a really good video of you speaking from your heart and telling your story! You are reaching and encouraging so many people. I’m very proud of you, Lina! I’m so happy you have decided to volunteer at the food pantry where you can do so much to help others figure out what to do with what they get! You have a generous heart!
My very small hometown has a food bank and they really take care of our community. They have a thrift store and a restaurant that are run by volunteers and any profits go back into the food bank. They do a community food drive twice a year. They will post on FB if they are in desperate need of a specific item or type of item and the community takes care of it for them.
Before Covid I was a couponer and you could get so much stuff for free or very cheap. I donated all of my excess personal care, cleaning and laundry care items. I was happy to be able to help them in the way that I could even though I was lucky and never needed to use the food bank.
Thank you😊
So very true middle class is the new poor only recognized I still hold my kindness and care to everyone
I go to the food pantry. (2) actually. One is a drive up, by appointment only and they give good stuff. For the month. The other one I use you can go 3x per month and that’s where I get veggies and eggs and milk. Not only does it feed me, my boyfriend, our kids but it also feeds both of our parents. I started stocking up two years ago bc prices were skyrocketing. Ssdi pays barely enough to live. The people that go to the food bank 3x a month are mostly senior citizens and ppl on ssdi. They are wonderful. This week I ended up with chicken gizzards. (Our dogs will live dehydrated gizzards in their food) and I know our cats would enjoy it too. ❤ we cant be picky. I have received a 6# prime rib, 10 lb hams, chicken breasts that are 1.5# each. Our homes are stocked and it’s a blessing.
i'm so happy you have found a food bank that helps you so much, here where i am, you can only go once a month and you only get a small amount of food to maybe feed a young child for about a week and they do not give out dairy, meat or fruits or veggies hardly ever, meat and dairy is never, fruits and veggies are only the ones that are almost spoiled that the grocery store gets rid of.....we are doing ok, but definitely can't afford to do a stockpile with our family of 7 and the cost of food....i am moving to our forever home in a few months and i have gathered all the canning and pressure canning supplies i need (still working on jars, lids and rings) so that maybe (crossing my fingers) i can buy extra stuff and can it for storage.....the plan is to not touch the stuff for one year and then start using as a working pantry that i can rotate through and keep a stockpile...i know i will not have a years worth of food, but my goal right now is at least 3 to 6 months of everything we eat or pantry staples so we have at least a little leeway if something bad were to happen....i'm learning to cook from scratch and trying very hard to get my children to stop being so picky (i literally have 7 meals i rotate through because hubby and kids are that picky.....no beans, meat mixed into potatoes because they will not eat it separately, next to no veggies, but win for me, they are eating more fruits! but a bag of 10 apples cost me $8.99 last grocery order 😳...) any advice to get the kids to eat new foods? one has what i believe is a texture issue, but the others are just picky......before hubby and i got together, my older kids eat everything, hubby is plain jane meat and potato kinda guy, so now my younger kiddies are following his lead, no salads, no tacos, no sandwiches, no casseroles and one doesn't eat PIZZA!! like what?? lol.....pls, this momma needs HELP!! i worry if things get worse they will not eat anything i can afford to buy to stretch meals, i'm already struggling to purchase the amount of meat for 7 people when you can't stretch it in a casserole or something!! and just a final note, we do not get food stamps or other programs here, we are on our own
Smoothies....muffins....breakfast burritos....my pickiest ones love these.
In the old days, there was one dinner and we werenot allowed to leave the table until our plate was clear of food. I cannot tell you how many jars of ketchup I must have consumed!!!
There should never be shame about food banks. Anything because you or your family needs to eat, kids need to eat. Not everyone has the need for going to a food bank but they may have the ability to make something to help an elderly neighbor or a family with children. You bake bread, cookies, make a casserole share with a family in your area. Anything helps as sharing is carrying, and those who need the help tou can always help a neighbor by cooking as alot of people don't know how or are unable to cook. God bless Carolina for your ability to teach others about how to survive.
We have alot of good food banks here where I live. I go to one every Sunday. I get all my fliyr, sugar, and cooking oil there. They also give out a bag of laundry detergent once a month with paper towels and toilet paper. I also get one meat item and two bags of produce. Then another bag has can good vegetables, pasta noodles, nuts tuna. Then I go to a food pantry at a church and you can go in and shop. I get one bread item, one sweet item, two meat items and fresh produce. I also visit a church pantry where you can go in and shop once a month. They also have clothing items. They are always generous as to what they let me have. All this helps so much to supplement our groceries bill since I am unable to work and have to live off my husband's income.
You are blessed
I love that you are so passionate about things that are important to you. You have inspired so many of us!! Thank you for sharing your life experiences and lessons.
I now volunteer at my churches food bank, and we get to pick out some food before working. I have volunteered at food banks before and have needed food from them. I enjoy helping and appreciated being helped when I needed it.
Love your channel, thank you for such great content and sharing your skills! ❤
I'm addicted to pressure canning too. No one around me understands why I find all that work is so satisfying to me. I learned about a food giveaway (monthly) where a church has a giveaway for foods that are left over from local food banks. If it wasn't for the church the leftover food would be sent to farmers to feed the pigs or sent to a landfill. It just seems like a crime to throwaway food in a landfill. The one downside of this food giveaway is that you have to process food, especially any produce right away. So I water bath and pressure can foods. I try to create shelf stable foods over freezer items, just in case the electric power goes out.
My church has a food bank for our parrish. It's wonderful I don't use I just donate back to school stuff. It's amazing my friend runs it. I help after mass if she drives home.
While filing for disability I was on food stamps and could go to the food bank I miss that. I do have a garden I am fighting the dear to keep it but was able to get two banana peppers two squash and one zucchini yum
❤ you're just wonderful.i love your content. I wish people around here were like you. Thank you for being so kind and informative.
Funny you mention 10 pound logs of hamburger. I just canned 20 pounds of cooked ground beef. 26 pints!!
I go to 2 food banks a month we need it I’m not ashamed
So excited to find your channel. I run the food programs for a local non-profit in South Texas and we just recently partnered with the regional food bank so I'm looking for resources for those who come and get food from us twice a month. I've been thinking about making videos with recipes using the things we distribute and may still do that but thank you for helping people to try and get past the stigma of visiting a food bank. We just want to help!
That is awesome! If you want to start up a channel to make videos to help, let me know and I can help you out! Thanks for helping your local community!
I really appreciate you talking about the stigma of food banks.We went when my boys were little very occasionally and I felt so ashamed..But I swelled my pride and even got some diapers etc.. (This was years ago.I know they give a lot more fruit and veggies now.)
I love watching your meals that you make from the food bank.
I would love to hear about how you and husband met.What an adventure to move somewhere without knowing a soul.Way to go!!
I think your cook experience makes your channel so great because you know a lot of cooking techniques.
Thank you for your great channel.💗🇨🇦
You’re a great person and good mother. Thanks for a good video and explaining the food banks. ❤❤❤
Thank you so much!
We got the old school government cheese. Lol.
I started food banking about 2 years ago, but got discouraged with the rotten and inedible food I received.
I’m so happy I returned and tried again for folks. Found some amazing resources and friends along the way. ❤
I just love your channel so much! It's so nice to see everyone has hard times. None of us are immune. Even though we are fine right now, I absolutely would go to the food bank if I needed it. That's what it's for. If you can save money by getting food you can use that money to help with another bill like the electric bill!
I live in a tiny town in the tiny state of Vermont. I had never been to a food bank before the pandemic but I started getting a box weekly a few years ago for a short time. I felt guilty so I started volunteering there and have ever since. I don't feel guilty now bringing home food because I help out a lot. I'm happy to hear you will be volunteering too. It feels good to help others. We don't have the kind of food you have, but it gives people the basics, which is important.😊 Thanks for sharing your experiences with us.👍
I’m sitting in a food bank line right now !this starts on 550 Am on Tuesday this is every. Tuesday by the time it’s 10 am there is like 500 cars here it’s no joke
YES Pleeeezzzzzzz, a video of how you met ❤️💙💜❤️💙💜😍😍😍😍!! When you have time 😚😚😚😚.
My husband and I have seen this coming for a very long time. We are a two income family that was never able to save a penny. We made enough just to pay bills. Its been rough. Our pantry was not - we never had any extra food in the house. No treats, no restaurants, no vacations etc. I took on an extra job over the week-ends. We both worked insane hours only to survive. I started a huge garden and canned. I learned to buy specials or reduced items. That's how we lived. Services were not available in our area.
I just worry about the situation out there. When the food banks begin to dry up what is going to happen to people that need the help. Take my word for it. Just think forward - think about what you would do if services are not available or if food banks are being reduced due to shortages. Trust me I'm not judging anyone. Just do what you have to do. Blessing to all.
No, you make a great point! Learning how to can and preserve food when it's in season, is a skill that'll save you and your children's lives someday! Thank you for taking the time to remind everyone to think forward and prepare as much as possible!
@@mamabairds You are awesome Momma Baird!
Lately I've been going to the food pantry weekly, mostly for the produce and baked goods. Our regional food bank distributes A LOT of fresh produce to the food pantries.
Oh that's wonderful!!
You are VERY fortunate!
@@pennynickels5216 I know. The region I'm in is mostly suburban with a lot of agriculture on the edges, so the regional food bank gets quite a bit donated directly from farms.
I don't remember going to food banks growing up, but I do remember getting commodity cheese and periodically getting food stamps. (Anyone remember when the food stamps were paper coupons you had to tear out in front of the cashier?) I swear I don't understand why people try to shame others who need a little help with food... what's the big deal? I don't recall any stories about people being shamed for going to the grocery market, what's the difference, the building? Besides that, who's business is it anyway? I can assure you the sacrifices you and Husband are making so your kids can have their Mom at home caring, cooking, guiding, teaching and raising them... are well worth it! So many kids are being raised by the system and that is sad.
I remember paper stamps very well
That was just a joy to watch with everyone, happy Father’s Day ❤❤❤🎉🎉🎉🎉
I agree with what you are saying about needing help with food
Please do some recipes for the staples the food banks give. Rice, beans, lentils, oatmeal etc.
Some food banks give out the most random, useless things. I went to one that gave me a zip lock bag of sugar packets, and already rotten vegetables and molding bread. What are people supposed to do with that? That was a long time ago, I do see that food banks are giving out decent things now most of the time. I think a lot of it has to do with grocery stores donating to food banks. Also, it’s perfectly ok to travel around to local places to different food banks in your area.
Mama Bear you will get your Homestead because God will provide
I recently went for the first time because of some massive medical bills and the repayment of my student loans starting up at the same time (oof.) We burned through savings trying to get it all set, but I made the decision to check out what was available. I found out that as an enrolled tribal citizen (I'm Eastern Cherokee,) I was eligible for a certain amount of food anyway. Wouldn't have known that otherwise, but it's a government agreement between the Eastern Band and the US, and since I live in CT now, the nearest food pantry takes over.
Mama Bear hotdog casserole is really good. Potatoes, hotdogs, chesse and i add vegetables
The food bank is there to help no one should go hungry !
My first time was February 2023, I only went for 3 months. Would like to go again, but the lines are really long, n sometimes it’s not worth it but the first time I went, they prayed for me n I cried 😢
We didn’t get assistance when I was growing up, because my dad worked as a case manager for food stamps so it was somewhat shamed upon. Now it’s different.
Thank you
I’m reading the comments and I see a lot of people commenting about the wonderful food banks that they have in their area well in my area I think there a hidden gem or something I’ve actually never seen one. I moved to this town just over a year ago and I have yet to see a food bank. I don’t know of any churches that have them nobody advertises them. I do know one that is for veterans only but that’s it. It’s really sad. There’s so many poor people here.
Google blessing boxes, food give aways, little free pantry, call your local school and ask if they know where you can get help. Dial 211 I believe its united way and they can direct you to resources.
In Texas you can dial 211 and they will send you a list of local foodbanks in your area, along with any places that can assist with utility/rent bills. There's a website for Texas as well. Since the emergency covid food stamp funds were removed my benefits went from over $200 a month to $23 a month and that's no joke. That hit me hard. I am unable to be able to stand in food lines or mobile pantries and I was surprised to find that if you are unable to get out to food banks there's a service that drop off food at your door. I am so grateful for this service. Also- some people trying to use ethics as a ground to complain should stop being hypocrites and realize the food is essentially trash if no one uses it. And we're eating the dusty old food they forgot was in their own cabinet.
211 works like that for most places in the US.
@@calihapamama Oh, that's great! I had no idea. Thank you!
I'd love to hear the story about why you and your family moved to Montana!! I live in Eastern NC, and am finding myself needing some help with groceries as the economy is pinching my budget pretty hard. How can I find my local food bank?
I go and volunteer at one tomorrow I go and help the people that are in need there's nothing wrong with getting help I get for my self as well because it's hard for everyone right now
I'd go to a food bank. That way, I'd save money. So... yeah! I'm on your side!😊
There's no shame in my game going to the food bank. I don't get the meats and veggies like yours give but I'm grateful for what I do get. Don't qualifie for food stamps. Don't know why I live on SSI. Oh well I do the best I can do and I'm good.
I am a single woman with no help. No family, and my friends can't help. I dealth with food insecurity this entire past year and finally realized what was happening and why I was so stressed all the time. I'm going to go, I don't need a lot I just don't want t go hungry.
Yes, please go! Everyone deserves help and food!
Sweetheart I am disable and 72 I draw 23 dollars a month and I have to go to food banks since I lost my husband of 45 years I couldn't make it without their help
Thanks for sharing. 😊❤🙏
Ms
Food and the cost of living has gotten so high. I used to cost $150 per month for groceries for a single person. Now is $300 or a bit more. It must now cost rent or mortgage payment for groceries with a whole family household. I make my budgets and discount stores seriously and food pantry is so helpful for extras.
I so agree with you regarding picking up food that is sparse, receive things that you cannot use (that you then give back to them), and worse is the fresh things that are already too old to really eat. Vegetables that would need to be cut to a million pieces to FINALLY get an edible piece. I am ashamed to give this food to people, personally I find it disrespectful, but it is what we are told to do at the food bank. "they will be grateful, better than starving" I am told. NO, SORRY NOT TRUE, I SAY, I would think it would make them feel "is this all I am worth to you". Sadly, if people do not donate to the food banks and consistently, it can be a true disappointment for people in need. Also, there ARE people that use the food bank that should not be, that do not have food insecurities, and instead store it for a later time, or see what they can get and the over abundance they give to their family or friends that also are not needy. When people do this, that means there is less for the people who indeed need it. NEVER, EVER be ashamed to use your local food bank when you are IN NEED. People are there to help YOU, some have been WHERE YOU ARE. Believe me, we have heard many unfortunate stories. You are not alone. Please, if you are watching Mama Baird's or any other Food Pantry Videos and YOU ARE NOT food insecure, plan your time of giving. If you can give weekly, please do that. Monthly? do that too! Just give, and don't raid your pantry and give items that have expired and non edible, it is hurtful to receive these. If you wouldn't eat it, neither would someone else. Give, it makes your heart feel good! Good Luck Mama Baird, look forward to a better future! :)
I'm pretty fortunate that we don't need the food bank very often just when an occasional curve ball is thrown our way. I used to be a major couponer and still use them when needed. I have a stockpile of laundry supplies that will last me probably another 6 months or so. When I started my current job we got bonuses every 3 months first bonus I bought a small deep freezer, used the second one to fill it full of meat for my family I have tried to keep it at least half full but life sometimes slips you curve balls and we have need extra help here a there. Our local food banks are nothing like yours wish they were we get two to three prefilled boxes of food and sometimes we can eat a lot of it sure to allergies. So we have these blessings boxes around town we just take what we can't eat and put in there for someone else who might need it.
This past year, before the summer, I would go to the food pantry regularly. Until one day I was spoken to rudely by one of the older volunteers there. I felt so humiliated. I said I would never go back there again. Now our rent has been increased and there will be nothing left for groceries. I'm a stay at home mom and I homeschool my children. Now I've been trying to decide if I should go back to using the food pantry regularly, or try to find a night job. I haven't worked outside the home in over 16 years! Yikes.
Thank you so much ur a blessing
Carolina-i would love to hear how u came to Montana. we go to get free produce every week. last week we got a pineapple, mangoes,pears and avocados and a big bag of mushrooms. i tell u...once the company my man worked at-laid off everyone. we didnt get our unemployments checks. we got forgotten for two months.we would go on the highway with our kids to collect soda cans. it was such a hard time. no one knows the other persons plight! we were so glad when our unemployment check finally got to our house. we were so happy to get government cheese and the block of butter. love your stories.
I saw that comment. She said your taking food from people who really need it👿 I knew you would address this 💕
Hi family! You are awesome!
I also really enjoy your recipes because I am not good at changing things up. And I hate for anything to get wasted! And I want to learn to can so bad but I am scared!! Lol!!
You can do it!
Thank you!! I'm in Illinois. Probably not far from where you used to live in Missouri.
You’ll be a Great Volunteer their lucky to have you 🤩🤩🤩
Those flowers will come back twice as big
That stigma is there because food banks, like any other charity, depend on having more givers than takers. Food banks and soup kitchens are struggling with ithe highest ever demand and decreased donations. Take a look online at food banks begging for donations while saying they are at "crisis level". There are even those closing doors to some. Not commenting on any individual need, just why a "stigma" exists.
That's a fair point. I do feel it has a lot to do with people accepting help and those who think help is "charity" and look down on those who need help. Thus making the stigma that it's shameful to need to use a food bank.
Don't let people get to you there's lots of people that are ashamed and have to much pride
You are awesome
I'm a veteran and I have issues!!! I'm not able to remain gainfully employed because of it!!! I recieve foodstamps and have used the local food bank several times, anybody who makes you feel bad about trying to feed yourself is somebody you don't wanna know!!!
Thank you for sharing your story. If you know there’s food being thrown away, why not go the last day and get what’s left? It’s better than seeing it destroyed. Again, thank you, sweet lady.
Ignore the haters.
Some ppl who work at food banks are so rude to the ppl getting the food. 🙁
I'm sorry to hear that!! They really shouldn't judge and just help those who show up!
I think your doing awesome!
I’ve volunteered at food banks. The state I’m from have a great state wide food warehouse that supplements what they receive in local donations. They want people to use their resources. In 2020 Mackenzie Scott gave our state food bank 9 million dollars. They have been doing a good service with that money.
Nobody should feel bad, berated, less than or inadequate. 1000's of families are broken right now they need help urgently. People are ignorante everybody needs nutritious food.
Hi..Hi..Hi Carolina 🥰! I just started to watch your video. YES, of course; we would like to hear why you moved to Montana ☺️☺️! Back to your video.
P.S. I LuvLuvLuv your top!! Is that a Calla Lilly beside you?