Description
RAFI, the Rural Advancement Foundation International, understands that food insecurity continues to impact many communities, families, and individuals nationwide. This blog discusses what faith communities across the country can do to help make food ministries more approachable and inclusive, less restrictive due to language barriers, and more in partnership with local resources. The blog offers practical guidance and insight that congregations can tap into to create more equitable food ministries for their community. It covers topics such as "Partner with SNAP and Local Food Resources", "Enhance Language Access", "Offer Nutritious Food Choices", "Create a Culturally Relevant Environment", "Leverage Simplicity", and "Technology for Greater Reach".
Features
- Links to related resources
- Statistics
- Come to the Table Blog
Practical Applications
- Inventory what language(s) are common in your congregation's neighborhood and ensure that key materials- food distribution times, how to access help, application and referral forms, are translated or that individuals can be accompanied by someone able to speak in the needed language.
- Offer cooking demonstrations or brief "how to use" sessions for the types of fresh or shelf-stable foods that food ministries near you provide. Help families develop creative, fun, and nutritious meals using items made available to them.
- Use your food ministry as a bridge for community building. Consider a community meal each month where people share food and conversation to foster a sense of belonging.
