Manna Food Center is the only food bank in Montgomery County, and nearly every county nonprofit organization relies on Manna to provide essential food to their clients. Manna is that rare organization that actually achieves synergy by bringing together government, corporations, nonprofit organizations, schools, faith-based organizations, community groups, and individuals with the common cause of fighting hunger in Montgomery County. Founded in 1983, Manna Food Center strives to end hunger in Montgomery County through education, advocacy, and food distribution. Since our founding, Manna has distributed more than 33 million pounds of food to more than 2.1 million individuals in Montgomery County. Manna has three primary food distribution programs.
Food Distribution to Families: Manna’s regular food distribution program feeds approximately 3,000 families each month. Every client is referred to Manna through one of our partnerships with 360 different organizations. Clients may pick up food every 30 days at one of Manna’s distribution sites located all across Montgomery County. They receive a 3-5 day supply of perishable and shelf-stable food. We also deliver food directly to several low-income apartment complexes and community centers across the county.
Smart Sacks: In 2005, Manna founded Smart Sacks which partners Manna, local businesses, and elementary schools. Together we provide the children with backpacks full of kid-friendly food every Friday so they have food on the weekends when there are no school meals to sustain them. Food Distribution to Agencies : Manna also provides food to 37 Montgomery County agencies including soup kitchens, food pantries, group homes, and emergency shelters throughout Montgomery County. These agencies have limited funds available fulfill their missions. When Manna can provide food the agency needs, it allows them to put their dollars to better use addressing the root causes of poverty and hunger.