The Mid-South Food Bank, a cornerstone of food security in the region, played a crucial role in supporting communities between 2019 and 2021. During the peak of the COVID-19 pandemic, with the help of non-profit organizations and corporate partners, the Mid-South Food Bank effectively utilized government assistance to stabilize individuals and families facing unprecedented hardship. As we move into a new phase, the organization is strategically evaluating programs initiated during that period to ensure they align with its fundamental mission and long-term sustainability.
This strategic review prioritizes strengthening the Mid-South Food Bank‘s core programs and network of partner agencies. The focus is on investing in dependable solutions that guarantee consistent food access for those in need. Consequently, the Mobile Pantry Program, which saw significant expansion due to temporary emergency funding during the pandemic, is being scaled back to ensure resources are directed towards these core initiatives.
Prior to the pandemic, the Mid-South Food Bank operated 27 mobile pantry sites, effectively serving 5,614 households annually. In 2023, at the height of the crisis, emergency relief funding enabled an unprecedented expansion to 186 mobile sites, reaching 62,890 households. As funding priorities shifted post-pandemic, adjustments were made to 164 mobile sites in 2024, serving 54,180 households. Looking ahead to 2025, the Mid-South Food Bank anticipates operating 137 mobile sites, continuing to provide food assistance to over 47,950 households.
The Mid-South Food Bank understands that this adjustment may impact individuals who have relied on the Mobile Pantry Program. However, the organization emphasizes its unwavering commitment to providing essential support through its robust Core Partner Programs. These include brick-and-mortar pantries, soup kitchens, and pantry-supported delivery services, all of which remain dedicated to serving the community’s food needs. While the surge of funding from donors, foundations, and government sources related to the COVID crisis has subsided, the demand for food assistance remains significantly high.
For those seeking food assistance, the Mid-South Food Bank encourages utilizing its comprehensive network of Core Partner Programs. A list of mobile pantry sites suspended due to funding adjustments is available for review. Individuals in need of food are urged to visit the Find Food tab on the Mid-South Food Bank website to locate the nearest food resources and support services available through the organization’s core programs.
