If you are operating on your own, you may be able to start by storing things in your basement or garage.

If there are other food banks in your area, notify them of your operation. Some banks may have food surpluses that you may be able to purchase, or they may be able to share helpful professional tips.

Figure out how many people (and families) you’ll be providing food to, what kind of foods they need, and how often you should distribute.

It’s okay to ask how long an individual or family will need food assistance for, or what lead to them needing food assistance in the first place. Often it’s because of an injury or an illness. Remember to be respectful, though. Treat the talk more like a conversation than an interview.

You can also ask local grocery stores to donate to your food drive. It gives them good publicity, and will dramatically increase the amount of food you collect.

At times when items aren’t coming in through the drop-off bin, you may need to purchase food when your reserves are low.

If grocery store managers are skeptical of your claim, you could show them a piece of mail with the food bank’s name and address on it. Alternately, invite them to come by the food bank on a day when you’re distributing food. Also, remind grocers that they won’t lose money by donating food, since they’d likely be throwing the food away otherwise. If grocery stores agree to donate, you’ll likely need to drive to the stores. Don’t expect grocery stores to bring the food to you.

For example, these items could be kept in a distinct section of shelving or cabinets.

You may also be able to work with other food banks in your community. For example, if you alternate weeks on which each food bank distributes food, you’ll help a larger portion of the community.

If you are packaging for individuals, keep in mind the amount of people the food has to feed and pack accordingly.

If clients need food but are unable to pay, you could charge a nominal fee. For example, ask for 5¢.

You can also reach out to large, nation- or world-wide food bank organizations for assistance with both finances and food. Organizations like Feeding America work with local or regional food banks. [13] X Research source