Feeding the debate: a local food bank explains itself

What is it about?

This paper explores how Christian theology can inform and help interpret food banks as a form of faith-based social engagement. It suggests that they do not necessarily de-politicise food poverty, but in many cases have played a part in bringing this issue to the attention of a wider audience, as well as seeking to respond to immediate needs.

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Why is it important?

There has been much discussion about food banks in the media, but this has frequently over-simplified both the political and often faith-based meaning of this form of social engagement. This paper integrates the authors' practical experience from their involvement in a food bank in Aston and Nechells, Birmingham with insights from Christian theology and social policy to present an alternative analysis of food banks, positioning them as one component of a multi-faceted response to social needs and inequalities.