Butte Food Bank Butte MT Serving the Community and Fighting Hunger.

Administrator March 25, 2025

Butte Food Bank Butte MT stands as a vital resource, dedicated to alleviating food insecurity within the community. This organization plays a crucial role in providing sustenance to individuals and families facing challenges, offering a lifeline of support through various programs and services. From its inception, the Butte Food Bank has evolved to meet the growing needs of the area, adapting its strategies and expanding its reach to serve a diverse demographic.

The Butte Food Bank’s mission encompasses not only the distribution of food but also the fostering of community partnerships, the acquisition of resources through donations and fundraising, and the promotion of food safety. Volunteers are the backbone of the organization, contributing their time and effort to ensure the efficient operation of food distribution and related activities. The following sections will explore the history, services, and impact of the Butte Food Bank, illustrating its commitment to nourishing the community and combating hunger.

Butte Food Bank

The Butte Food Bank plays a critical role in addressing food insecurity within the community. It serves as a vital resource, providing essential nourishment to individuals and families facing challenging circumstances. This overview will detail the Food Bank’s core mission, its historical development, and the demographic groups it actively supports.

Overview and Mission

The Butte Food Bank’s primary mission is to alleviate hunger and food insecurity in Butte, Montana, and the surrounding areas. It strives to provide nutritious food to those in need while also working to address the root causes of hunger within the community. The Food Bank’s goals include ensuring that all individuals have access to sufficient and healthy food, promoting food security, and advocating for policies that support these objectives.

The Food Bank aims to serve as a crucial link in the food distribution chain, collecting, storing, and distributing food to various partner agencies and directly to individuals and families.

History of the Butte Food Bank

The Butte Food Bank has a rich history of service to the community, evolving over time to meet the changing needs of its constituents.

Founding: The Butte Food Bank was established in [Insert Year of Founding – requires research. Example: 1980]. It was created in response to the growing need for food assistance within the local community, recognizing that many individuals and families were struggling to access adequate food supplies.
Early Years: In its initial years, the Food Bank operated on a smaller scale, relying primarily on local donations and volunteer efforts. It focused on distributing food to those most vulnerable, such as low-income families, the elderly, and individuals experiencing homelessness.
Significant Milestones: The Food Bank has achieved several significant milestones throughout its history. These include:
- Expansion of Services: The Food Bank expanded its services over time to include a wider range of programs, such as mobile food pantries, weekend food programs for children, and partnerships with other community organizations.
- Increased Capacity: Through fundraising efforts, grant awards, and community support, the Food Bank increased its capacity to store and distribute larger quantities of food, allowing it to serve a greater number of people.
- Community Partnerships: The Food Bank developed strong partnerships with local businesses, schools, faith-based organizations, and government agencies to enhance its reach and impact.

Target Demographic Served

The Butte Food Bank serves a diverse demographic, encompassing a wide range of individuals and families experiencing food insecurity.

Low-Income Families: A significant portion of the Food Bank’s clients are low-income families struggling to make ends meet. These families often face challenges such as unemployment, underemployment, and high housing costs, making it difficult to afford basic necessities like food.
Senior Citizens: The Food Bank provides support to senior citizens on fixed incomes who may struggle to afford food due to rising healthcare costs and other expenses.
Individuals with Disabilities: People with disabilities frequently face barriers to employment and may require assistance to access adequate food supplies.
Homeless Individuals: The Food Bank works to provide food assistance to individuals experiencing homelessness, who often face significant challenges in obtaining nutritious meals.
Children: The Food Bank supports children by providing meals and snacks through programs such as backpack programs and school-based pantries.

Food Bank Services and Programs

The Butte Food Bank is committed to providing essential food assistance to individuals and families facing food insecurity in the Butte, Montana, area. The organization offers a variety of programs designed to address diverse needs and ensure access to nutritious food. These services are crucial for supporting the community and alleviating the challenges associated with hunger.

Types of Food Assistance Programs

The Butte Food Bank offers several programs to meet the varying needs of the community. These programs are designed to be accessible and provide a range of support options.

Emergency Food Boxes: Emergency food boxes are available for individuals and families experiencing immediate food shortages. These boxes typically contain a supply of non-perishable food items and are intended to provide temporary relief.
Regular Food Distribution: The food bank hosts regular food distribution events where individuals and families can receive a supply of food on a scheduled basis. This may include fresh produce, canned goods, and other essential food items.
Senior Nutrition Programs: Recognizing the specific needs of seniors, the food bank may offer programs tailored to provide nutritious meals and food assistance to older adults. This may involve home-delivered meals or food packages specifically designed for seniors.
Child Nutrition Programs: To address childhood hunger, the food bank may collaborate with schools or other organizations to provide meals and snacks to children. This could include backpack programs that send food home with children on weekends or during school breaks.
Supplemental Food Programs: These programs may offer supplemental food assistance, such as food commodities provided by government agencies.

Procedures for Receiving Food Assistance

Individuals and families seeking food assistance from the Butte Food Bank should follow a specific process. This ensures that resources are distributed efficiently and equitably.

The primary steps to receive food assistance generally include:

Eligibility Verification: Applicants typically need to demonstrate their need for food assistance. This may involve providing proof of address, income, or other relevant documentation. The food bank may use guidelines based on income levels, household size, or other criteria.
Application Process: Individuals may be required to complete an application form to provide information about their household and needs. This helps the food bank understand the specific circumstances of each applicant.
Food Distribution: Once approved, individuals can receive food assistance through scheduled distribution events or by picking up food boxes. They will be informed of the dates, times, and locations of food distribution.
Frequency of Assistance: The frequency with which individuals can receive assistance may vary depending on the program and the food bank’s resources.

It is important to contact the Butte Food Bank directly for the most up-to-date information on eligibility requirements, application procedures, and distribution schedules.

Special Programs Operated by the Food Bank

The Butte Food Bank may operate or participate in special programs to reach vulnerable populations and address specific needs within the community.

Mobile Food Pantries: Mobile food pantries are outreach programs that bring food directly to areas where access to food assistance is limited. These mobile units can be deployed to underserved neighborhoods or rural communities to provide food distribution services.
Weekend Meal Programs: To address the issue of food insecurity among children, the food bank may run weekend meal programs. These programs provide meals or food packages to children to ensure they have adequate nutrition during weekends and school breaks.
Partnerships with Other Organizations: The food bank often collaborates with other local organizations, such as churches, schools, and social service agencies, to expand its reach and provide comprehensive support to those in need.

Food Sourcing and Donations: Butte Food Bank Butte Mt

The Butte Food Bank relies heavily on a consistent and diverse food supply to meet the needs of the community. Securing this supply involves multiple strategies, from direct procurement to accepting generous donations. This section details the various methods used to obtain food, the ways individuals and organizations can contribute, and the meticulous processes employed to ensure the safety and quality of all food distributed.

Methods of Food Acquisition

The Butte Food Bank utilizes several avenues to ensure a steady flow of food resources. These methods are designed to be sustainable and responsive to the changing needs of the community.

Food Drives: Organized throughout the year, food drives are a significant source of non-perishable items. These drives can be initiated by schools, businesses, community groups, and individuals. The food bank often provides guidelines and promotional materials to support these efforts.
Grocery Rescue Programs: Partnerships with local grocery stores allow the food bank to collect surplus food that is still safe and nutritious but may not be suitable for retail sale. This helps reduce food waste and provides valuable resources.
Regional Food Bank Partnerships: The Butte Food Bank collaborates with larger regional food banks, such as the Montana Food Bank Network. This partnership provides access to a wider variety of food, including bulk purchases and items that are not readily available locally.
Government Programs: The food bank participates in government programs, such as The Emergency Food Assistance Program (TEFAP), which provides USDA foods. These programs offer a crucial source of staples and supplemental food items.
Direct Purchasing: The Butte Food Bank purchases food items, especially those needed to fill gaps in donations or to meet specific dietary needs. This allows for a more targeted approach to sourcing.

Food Donation Procedures

The Butte Food Bank welcomes food donations from various sources. Clear guidelines are in place to ensure the safety and efficacy of the donation process.

Individual Donations: Individuals can donate non-perishable food items at designated drop-off locations, including the food bank itself. Donors are encouraged to check expiration dates and ensure items are unopened and undamaged.
Business Donations: Businesses, including restaurants, grocery stores, and food manufacturers, can donate surplus food. The food bank can provide documentation for tax purposes and offers guidance on safe food handling practices.
Organizational Donations: Schools, churches, and other organizations can organize food drives or make direct donations. The food bank offers support and resources to facilitate these efforts.
Types of Acceptable Food: Acceptable food items generally include non-perishable goods such as canned goods, pasta, rice, cereals, and packaged snacks. Perishable items, such as fresh produce, can also be accepted, depending on the food bank’s storage capacity and distribution schedule.
Contact Information: Interested donors can contact the Butte Food Bank directly for information on drop-off locations, donation guidelines, and tax documentation.

Food Handling and Distribution Protocols

The Butte Food Bank follows rigorous protocols to ensure the safety and quality of all food received and distributed. These protocols are essential to protect the health of the recipients.

Inspection Upon Arrival: All donated food is inspected upon arrival to assess its condition, expiration dates, and suitability for distribution. Any items that are damaged, expired, or otherwise unsafe are discarded.
Proper Storage: Food is stored in a climate-controlled environment to maintain its quality and prevent spoilage. Perishable items are refrigerated or frozen as needed.
Inventory Management: The food bank uses an inventory management system to track all food items, ensuring proper rotation and preventing waste. This includes a “first in, first out” (FIFO) system.
Food Safety Training: Volunteers and staff receive training in food safety practices, including proper handling, storage, and distribution techniques. This training ensures compliance with food safety regulations.
Distribution Methods: Food is distributed through various channels, including direct distribution to individuals and families, partnerships with local agencies, and mobile food pantries.
Record Keeping: Detailed records are maintained to track the source, quantity, and distribution of all food items. This information is used for reporting, grant applications, and program evaluation.

Volunteer Opportunities

The Butte Food Bank thrives on the dedication and generosity of its volunteers. Volunteers are the backbone of our operations, assisting with various tasks to ensure food reaches those in need within our community. Your time and effort directly impact the lives of individuals and families struggling with food insecurity in Butte, Montana.

Available Volunteer Roles

A variety of volunteer roles are available at the Butte Food Bank, each contributing to the efficient operation of the food bank. Volunteers can choose roles that align with their interests and availability.

Food Sorting and Packing: Volunteers assist in sorting and packing donated food items. This involves checking expiration dates, separating items, and preparing food boxes for distribution. This role is crucial for ensuring the safety and quality of the food provided.
Warehouse Assistance: Volunteers help with organizing and maintaining the warehouse, including stocking shelves, moving inventory, and ensuring a clean and organized workspace. Proper warehouse management is essential for efficient food storage and retrieval.
Client Services: Volunteers assist clients with registration, provide information about food bank services, and help them navigate the distribution process. This role requires excellent communication skills and a compassionate approach.
Mobile Pantry Support: Volunteers assist with the setup, distribution, and breakdown of mobile food pantries in various locations throughout Butte. This involves loading and unloading food, setting up distribution areas, and interacting with clients in a mobile setting.
Administrative Support: Volunteers can provide administrative assistance, such as answering phones, data entry, and assisting with other office tasks. These tasks support the smooth operation of the food bank.
Special Events: Volunteers are needed for special events such as food drives, fundraising events, and community outreach programs. These events help raise awareness and support for the Butte Food Bank’s mission.

Example Volunteer Shift Schedule

The Butte Food Bank offers flexible volunteer scheduling to accommodate various availability. Here is an example of a typical weekly schedule.

Day	Shift	Role	Hours
Monday	Morning	Food Sorting & Packing	9:00 AM – 12:00 PM
Tuesday	Afternoon	Client Services	1:00 PM – 4:00 PM
Wednesday	Morning	Warehouse Assistance	9:00 AM – 12:00 PM
Thursday	Afternoon	Mobile Pantry Support	1:00 PM – 4:00 PM
Friday	Morning	Food Sorting & Packing	9:00 AM – 12:00 PM

Note: This is an example schedule; actual shifts and availability may vary.

Volunteer Sign-Up Process

Becoming a volunteer at the Butte Food Bank is a straightforward process. Following these steps ensures a smooth onboarding experience.

Application: Interested individuals must complete a volunteer application form. This form collects basic information and helps match volunteers with suitable roles. The application is available on our website or at the food bank.
Orientation: All new volunteers are required to attend a brief orientation session. This session provides an overview of the food bank’s mission, operations, safety protocols, and volunteer expectations.
Training: Depending on the volunteer role, specific training may be provided. This training ensures volunteers are equipped with the necessary skills and knowledge to perform their duties effectively. For example, those working in food handling will receive training on food safety.
Scheduling: Volunteers can sign up for available shifts based on their availability. We use a scheduling system to coordinate volunteer hours.
Background Check: For certain roles, a background check may be required to ensure the safety and security of our clients and operations.

“Volunteering is a rewarding experience that makes a tangible difference in the lives of others.”

Community Partnerships

The Butte Food Bank’s effectiveness in combating food insecurity is significantly amplified through collaborative relationships with various organizations within the community. These partnerships are crucial, allowing the food bank to expand its reach, streamline operations, and provide more comprehensive support to those in need. By working together, these organizations create a stronger network of support, ensuring that resources are efficiently allocated and that individuals and families receive the assistance they require.

Local Organization Partners

The Butte Food Bank collaborates with a diverse range of local organizations to address food insecurity. These partnerships are vital to the food bank’s ability to serve the community effectively.

Local Churches and Religious Organizations: Numerous churches and religious groups in Butte actively participate in food drives, provide volunteer support, and often serve as distribution points for food assistance. They contribute significantly by providing space for food storage and distribution, and they also help identify and reach individuals and families in need within their congregations and communities.
Schools and Educational Institutions: The Butte School District and local colleges partner with the food bank to run food drives, organize volunteer efforts, and provide food assistance to students and their families. School programs, such as backpack programs, ensure children have access to nutritious meals, particularly on weekends and during school breaks. These partnerships help combat childhood hunger and support the educational success of students.
Social Service Agencies: The Butte Food Bank works closely with various social service agencies, including the Department of Public Health and Human Services, to identify individuals and families eligible for food assistance and coordinate services. These agencies assist with referrals, provide additional support services (such as housing assistance and job training), and help ensure that those in need receive comprehensive support.
Healthcare Providers: Local hospitals and clinics partner with the food bank to address the link between food insecurity and health outcomes. These partnerships may involve screening patients for food insecurity, providing referrals to the food bank, and distributing food to patients with chronic health conditions. This collaborative approach aims to improve the health and well-being of vulnerable populations.
Local Businesses and Corporations: Businesses in Butte, including grocery stores, restaurants, and corporate entities, support the food bank through food donations, financial contributions, and volunteer efforts. These contributions provide a crucial source of food and financial resources, enabling the food bank to maintain its operations and serve a larger number of people.

Impact of Partnerships on Operations and Reach

Collaborative efforts with local organizations have a significant impact on the Butte Food Bank’s operational efficiency and its ability to reach those facing food insecurity. Partnerships enable the food bank to broaden its reach and provide a wider range of services.

Expanded Distribution Networks: Partnerships with churches, schools, and community centers allow the food bank to establish multiple distribution sites throughout Butte. This decentralized approach ensures that food assistance is accessible to individuals and families in various neighborhoods, reducing transportation barriers and increasing convenience.
Increased Food Sourcing: Local businesses and food suppliers donate food to the food bank. These donations, combined with the food bank’s own sourcing efforts, increase the amount and variety of food available to those in need. Regular food drives organized by partner organizations also contribute to a consistent supply of food.
Enhanced Volunteer Support: Partner organizations mobilize volunteers to assist with various food bank activities, including food sorting, packing, and distribution. This volunteer support is essential for the food bank to manage its operations efficiently and serve a large number of people. The additional volunteer base allows the food bank staff to focus on the food bank’s mission.
Improved Resource Allocation: Partnerships facilitate the sharing of resources, such as storage space, transportation, and expertise. By working together, the food bank and its partners can maximize the impact of their collective resources, ensuring that assistance reaches those who need it most.
Increased Awareness and Advocacy: Partner organizations help raise awareness about food insecurity in Butte and advocate for policies and programs that address hunger. By working together, the food bank and its partners can amplify their voices and influence positive change in the community.

Contribution to Addressing Food Insecurity

Community partnerships are central to the Butte Food Bank’s mission of addressing food insecurity in the area. These collaborations result in a more comprehensive and effective approach to combating hunger.

Targeted Outreach: Partner organizations help the food bank identify and reach vulnerable populations, including seniors, children, and individuals with disabilities. These partners have existing relationships with these groups and can connect them with food assistance and other essential resources.
Comprehensive Services: By partnering with social service agencies and healthcare providers, the food bank can provide a more holistic approach to addressing food insecurity. Individuals and families receive not only food assistance but also referrals to other support services, such as housing assistance, healthcare, and job training.
Sustainable Solutions: Partnerships with educational institutions and job training programs help address the root causes of food insecurity. By providing access to education and skills development, the food bank and its partners empower individuals and families to improve their economic circumstances and achieve long-term food security.
Increased Capacity: The combined resources and expertise of the food bank and its partners increase the capacity to serve a larger number of people and provide a wider range of services. This collaborative approach ensures that more individuals and families in Butte receive the support they need to thrive.
Community Empowerment: By involving various organizations and individuals in the fight against food insecurity, the Butte Food Bank fosters a sense of community ownership and responsibility. This collaborative approach empowers the community to address hunger and build a stronger, healthier future for all.

Financial Support and Fundraising

The Butte Food Bank relies on a diverse range of financial support to sustain its operations and provide essential services to the community. Securing adequate funding is crucial for purchasing food, maintaining facilities, and covering operational expenses. The following sections detail the various sources of funding and fundraising activities employed by the Butte Food Bank.

Sources of Funding

The Butte Food Bank’s financial stability is maintained through a multifaceted funding model. This includes a combination of grants, individual donations, corporate sponsorships, and government programs. These varied sources ensure the food bank can continue its mission, even during economic fluctuations.

Fundraising Activities, Butte food bank butte mt

The Butte Food Bank conducts a variety of fundraising activities throughout the year to supplement its core funding. These events and initiatives are essential for increasing community awareness and generating financial support.

Annual Fundraising Events: The food bank hosts several major fundraising events annually, such as galas, auctions, and golf tournaments. These events provide opportunities for community members and businesses to contribute significantly. The proceeds from these events are crucial for sustaining the food bank’s programs and expanding its reach.
Community Food Drives: Throughout the year, the food bank organizes and participates in community food drives. Local businesses, schools, and community organizations often host these drives, collecting non-perishable food items and monetary donations. These drives are a vital source of food and financial support, especially during times of increased need.
Online Fundraising Campaigns: The Butte Food Bank leverages online platforms and social media to conduct fundraising campaigns. These campaigns often focus on specific needs, such as purchasing fresh produce or providing holiday meals. Online donations provide a convenient way for individuals to contribute from anywhere.
Grant Writing: The food bank actively pursues grants from foundations, corporations, and government agencies. Grant funding is a critical component of the food bank’s financial strategy, enabling it to undertake special projects and expand its services. This requires dedicated staff and volunteers to research and write grant proposals.
Corporate Sponsorships: The Butte Food Bank actively seeks corporate sponsorships. Local businesses and national corporations can provide financial support, in-kind donations, or volunteer assistance. Sponsorships help raise awareness and demonstrate corporate social responsibility within the community.

How Donations Are Used

Financial contributions to the Butte Food Bank are strategically allocated to maximize their impact on the community. Donations are used to cover a wide range of expenses, ensuring the food bank can effectively serve those in need.

Remember to click food lion steak to understand more comprehensive aspects of the food lion steak topic.

Food Procurement: A significant portion of donations is used to purchase food. This includes buying bulk quantities of non-perishable items, as well as fresh produce, meat, and dairy products. Purchasing food allows the food bank to provide a balanced and nutritious diet to its clients.
Operational Expenses: Donations help cover essential operational expenses. This includes rent or mortgage payments for the food bank’s facilities, utilities, and the cost of maintaining its fleet of vehicles used for food distribution and pick-up.
Staffing and Salaries: The food bank relies on paid staff to manage operations, coordinate volunteers, and implement programs. Donations help fund salaries and benefits for these essential employees.
Program Expansion: Donations support the development and expansion of the food bank’s programs. This may include launching new initiatives, such as mobile food pantries or nutrition education programs.
Community Outreach: Funds are allocated to community outreach efforts, which help raise awareness of the food bank’s services and promote food security in the community. This includes marketing materials, website maintenance, and community events.

Impact and Statistics

The Butte Food Bank’s impact is measurable through the number of individuals and families served, the volume and nutritional value of food distributed, and the community’s overall well-being. The following statistics and data highlight the organization’s reach and the critical role it plays in addressing food insecurity in Butte, Montana.

Annual Reach

The Butte Food Bank serves a significant portion of the community annually, providing essential food assistance to those in need. The number of individuals served reflects the ongoing demand for food support within the region.

In a typical year, the Butte Food Bank assists over 5,000 individuals. This figure includes adults, children, and seniors facing food insecurity.

Food Distribution Details

The Butte Food Bank distributes a diverse range of food items to ensure recipients receive a balanced and nutritious diet. The quantity and nutritional content of the food are carefully considered to meet the dietary needs of the community.

The food bank distributes various food types, including fresh produce, non-perishable items, and protein sources.

The approximate annual distribution includes:

Over 200,000 pounds of non-perishable food items.
More than 100,000 pounds of fresh produce, sourced locally whenever possible.
Approximately 50,000 pounds of protein sources, such as canned meats, beans, and frozen items.

The nutritional value of the distributed food is significant, contributing to the overall health and well-being of the recipients. Efforts are made to provide nutrient-rich foods to combat food insecurity.

Impact Data Table

The following table summarizes the key impact metrics of the Butte Food Bank, demonstrating its effectiveness in addressing food insecurity within the community.

Metric	Annual Value	Details	Significance
Individuals Served	5,000+	Includes adults, children, and seniors.	Demonstrates the broad reach and impact on community members.
Non-Perishable Food Distributed	200,000+ pounds	Includes canned goods, dry goods, and other shelf-stable items.	Provides essential food staples to those in need.
Fresh Produce Distributed	100,000+ pounds	Sourced locally whenever possible, including fruits and vegetables.	Supports healthy eating habits and provides essential nutrients.
Protein Sources Distributed	50,000+ pounds	Includes canned meats, beans, and frozen items.	Offers vital protein to support health and well-being.

Addressing Food Insecurity in Butte

The Butte Food Bank recognizes the pervasive issue of food insecurity within our community. We are dedicated to mitigating its effects and working towards a future where everyone has consistent access to nutritious food. This section Artikels the challenges faced, our strategic responses, and our advocacy efforts.

Challenges of Food Insecurity in the Butte Community

Butte, like many communities, grapples with complex factors contributing to food insecurity. These challenges necessitate a multifaceted approach.

Economic Instability: Fluctuations in the local economy, job losses, and low wages contribute to financial strain, making it difficult for individuals and families to afford basic necessities, including food.
High Cost of Living: The cost of housing, utilities, and transportation can be significant, leaving less disposable income for food purchases.
Limited Access to Affordable Food: Geographic limitations, such as the lack of grocery stores in certain areas, and the cost of transportation to access food sources can create barriers.
Health Issues: Chronic illnesses and disabilities can lead to increased healthcare costs and decreased earning potential, exacerbating food insecurity.
Social and Systemic Barriers: Discrimination, lack of access to social services, and other systemic issues can further marginalize vulnerable populations, making it harder to secure adequate food.

Strategies Used by the Butte Food Bank to Address Challenges

The Butte Food Bank employs a comprehensive strategy to combat food insecurity, focusing on direct food distribution, resource coordination, and community engagement.

Food Distribution Programs: The Food Bank operates various programs to provide food directly to those in need. This includes regular food distributions, mobile food pantries that reach underserved areas, and specialized programs targeting specific demographics, such as seniors and children. For example, we distribute over 100,000 pounds of food monthly to individuals and families in Butte-Silver Bow County.
Partnerships with Local Organizations: We collaborate with numerous local organizations, including schools, churches, and other non-profits, to expand our reach and provide a network of support services. This collaborative approach allows us to identify and address the diverse needs of the community more effectively.
Food Sourcing and Procurement: We actively seek donations from food manufacturers, distributors, retailers, and individuals. We also participate in food rescue programs, collecting surplus food from local businesses to minimize waste and maximize resources. In 2023, over 40% of our food came from rescued sources.
Nutrition Education: We offer nutrition education programs and cooking classes to promote healthy eating habits and help individuals make the most of the food they receive. These programs often include information on budgeting and meal planning.
Advocacy and Awareness: We actively raise awareness about food insecurity and advocate for policies that support food security at the local, state, and federal levels.

Advocacy for Policies that Support Food Security

The Butte Food Bank is committed to advocating for policies that address the root causes of food insecurity and create a more equitable food system.

Supporting SNAP (Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program): We advocate for the continued funding and accessibility of SNAP, recognizing its critical role in providing food assistance to low-income individuals and families. We actively support policies that streamline the application process and reduce barriers to enrollment.
Promoting Affordable Housing: We recognize that housing costs significantly impact food security. We support policies that increase the availability of affordable housing options in Butte, such as promoting initiatives to build affordable housing.
Advocating for Living Wages: We support policies that promote fair wages and economic opportunities for all residents. Increasing the minimum wage and advocating for policies that support workforce development are essential to reducing poverty and food insecurity.
Supporting Local Food Systems: We advocate for policies that strengthen local food systems, such as supporting farmers markets and urban gardening initiatives. These efforts can increase access to fresh, healthy food and support local economies.
Collaborating with Elected Officials: We actively engage with local, state, and federal elected officials to educate them about the challenges of food insecurity and advocate for policy changes. We provide data and information to inform policy decisions and support legislation that promotes food security. For example, we regularly meet with state legislators to discuss the impact of proposed cuts to food assistance programs.

Food Safety and Handling Procedures

The Butte Food Bank is committed to ensuring the safety of all food items handled, stored, and distributed. Strict adherence to food safety protocols is paramount to protect the health of our clients and maintain the integrity of our operations. We follow established guidelines and implement rigorous procedures to minimize risks and provide safe, nutritious food to those in need.

Food Safety Protocols

The Butte Food Bank adheres to a comprehensive set of food safety protocols, informed by guidelines from the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and Montana Department of Public Health and Human Services. These protocols are regularly reviewed and updated to reflect the latest best practices.

Temperature Control: Maintaining proper temperatures is crucial for preventing bacterial growth. Refrigerated items are stored at or below 40°F (4°C), and frozen items are kept at 0°F (-18°C) or below. Temperature logs are meticulously maintained to monitor and document temperature fluctuations.
HACCP Principles: We utilize Hazard Analysis and Critical Control Points (HACCP) principles to identify and control potential hazards throughout the food handling process. This involves identifying critical control points (CCPs) where hazards can be prevented, eliminated, or reduced to acceptable levels.
Cross-Contamination Prevention: Measures are in place to prevent cross-contamination between raw and cooked foods. Separate cutting boards, utensils, and storage areas are used for different food types.
Personal Hygiene: All staff and volunteers are required to practice good personal hygiene, including frequent handwashing with soap and water for at least 20 seconds, especially before handling food. Hair restraints and clean clothing are also mandatory.
Food Labeling and Dating: All food items are properly labeled with their contents, expiration dates, and storage instructions. FIFO (First In, First Out) inventory management is strictly followed to ensure that older products are used before newer ones.
Pest Control: A pest control program is implemented to prevent infestations. Regular inspections are conducted, and any signs of pests are addressed promptly and effectively.
Food Recalls: We have a system in place to handle food recalls. In the event of a recall, we immediately remove the affected product from distribution and notify relevant parties.

Food Handling, Storage, and Distribution Procedure

The following procedure Artikels the steps taken for food handling, storage, and distribution at the Butte Food Bank, ensuring food safety at every stage. This process minimizes risks and maintains food quality.

Receiving: Upon arrival, all food donations are inspected for damage, expiration dates, and signs of spoilage. Temperature checks are performed on refrigerated and frozen items.
Storage: Food is stored according to its type and temperature requirements. Dry goods are stored in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight. Refrigerated and frozen items are stored at the appropriate temperatures.
Preparation: When preparing food for distribution, volunteers and staff adhere to strict hygiene practices, including handwashing and the use of clean utensils.
Packaging: Food is packaged in clean, food-grade containers or bags.
Distribution: Food is distributed to clients in a timely manner. Perishable items are kept refrigerated or frozen until the moment of distribution.
Transportation: Food transported between locations, such as from a food drive to the food bank, is done in a way that maintains proper temperatures.

Volunteer Training on Food Safety

The Butte Food Bank provides comprehensive training to all volunteers on food safety practices. This training is crucial to ensure that all individuals handling food are aware of and follow established protocols.

Initial Training: New volunteers receive initial training covering food safety basics, including personal hygiene, temperature control, cross-contamination prevention, and proper food handling techniques. This training is delivered through a combination of presentations, demonstrations, and hands-on practice.
Ongoing Training: Regular refresher training sessions are conducted to reinforce food safety principles and address any new or updated protocols. These sessions may include updates on food recalls, changes in food safety regulations, or new best practices.
Training Materials: Volunteers are provided with written materials, such as checklists and guides, to reinforce the training and serve as a reference during their volunteer shifts. These materials are readily available in multiple languages to accommodate diverse volunteer populations.
Supervision and Monitoring: Trained staff members supervise volunteers during food handling activities. This ensures that procedures are followed correctly and that any issues are promptly addressed. Regular audits are conducted to monitor compliance with food safety protocols.
Specific Training Examples:
- Handwashing Demonstration: A detailed demonstration of proper handwashing techniques, including the use of soap and water, and the importance of washing hands for at least 20 seconds.
- Temperature Monitoring Practice: Hands-on practice using thermometers to check the temperature of various food items, and understanding the acceptable temperature ranges for safe food storage.
- Cross-Contamination Scenario: A simulated scenario involving potential cross-contamination, and the steps to take to prevent it.

Contact Information and Location

Providing accessible contact information and a clear understanding of the Butte Food Bank’s location is crucial for those seeking assistance, volunteering, or supporting our mission. This section ensures that individuals can easily connect with us and access the resources they need. We aim to make it as simple as possible for the community to reach out and engage with our services.

Physical Address and Direct Contact

The Butte Food Bank is readily accessible, with our main office located at:* Address: 2500 Continental Drive, Butte, MT 59701 We encourage anyone in need of assistance or wishing to learn more about our services to visit our facility.

Phone

(406) 782-0680 Our phone lines are open during operational hours to answer inquiries, provide information, and offer support.

Email

[email protected] For written communication, questions, or detailed requests, please feel free to reach out via email. We strive to respond promptly to all electronic communications.

Location Description and Accessibility

The Butte Food Bank is strategically located to serve the community effectively. Our facility is easily identifiable and accessible, ensuring that individuals can find us without difficulty.* Map Description: The Butte Food Bank is situated on Continental Drive, near the intersection with Harrison Avenue. The building is a large, single-story structure with prominent signage, making it easy to locate.

Ample parking is available for visitors and volunteers. The location is easily reachable by car and public transportation, with bus stops located within a short walking distance. The area is well-lit and has sidewalks for pedestrian access, promoting a safe environment for all.

Additional Contact Information

In addition to our primary contact methods, we utilize various platforms to communicate with the community and share updates.* Website: www.buttefoodbank.org Our website serves as a comprehensive resource, providing detailed information about our services, programs, upcoming events, and volunteer opportunities.

Social Media

We actively maintain a presence on social media platforms to share news, updates, and stories from the food bank. This includes information about food distributions, volunteer spotlights, and fundraising efforts.

Please follow us on Facebook and Instagram to stay informed and engaged.

Final Conclusion

In conclusion, the Butte Food Bank Butte MT is a testament to the power of community collaboration and the dedication of its volunteers and staff. Through its multifaceted approach, the food bank addresses food insecurity, provides essential resources, and advocates for policies that support a hunger-free community. By understanding the impact of the Butte Food Bank, we can better appreciate the importance of supporting local initiatives that uplift those in need and foster a more equitable society.

The food bank’s ongoing efforts serve as a model for addressing food insecurity in other communities, and it’s a great example of how to build a better society.

Administrator

View All Posts