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HOVID in Reality: Hunger Linked to COVID-19 Emergency and Faith-led Food Banks

The challenges of rising hunger linked to COVID-19 lockdowns (often referred to as the HOVID crisis) are reported in many parts of the world, and they point to a place where faith-linked organizations are responding in diverse ways. The full information we would ideally like to have about what is happening overall is not available, but the stories emerging suggest both remarkable mobilization and heartwarming cooperation and outreach. 
 
Since the United Kingdom entered lockdown in March 2020, the demand for food banks has soared. Financial insecurity brought on by a sharp rise in unemployment, and the 20 percent reduction in income for those who are furloughed, has led to an unprecedented increase in the demand for food assistance. Despite the generosity of local communities, food banks up and down the country contend with empty shelves as they struggle to meet the demand.
 
The majority of food banks in the United Kingdom are either managed, hosted, or collected for by churches. The embedded, physical presence of the church in local communities, and their emphasis on human contact, is reflected by the food banks, which are often seen as community hubs. Alongside material assistance, food banks often provide additional services such as cooking lessons and debt counseling. They also give visitors a cup of tea, and a volunteer called a befriender, whose role it is to listen to and speak with visitors and keep guests company while they wait for their food package to be prepared. Providing for the social needs of people facing vulnerabilities is just as central to the work of food banks as their material assistance.  
 
During the COVID-19 emergency, food banks have had to change the way they work. Physical distancing measures have seen most food banks move to a home delivery model, and many befrienders are categorized as vulnerable and so need to shield or self-isolate. The lack of human contact is felt deeply by volunteers and guests. That relational aspect of food banks in the United Kingdom, an integral part of the service they provide, is curtailed. It is also central to the lives of many of the churches who support them. Many churches are struggling to find ways to connect with their community members during the coronavirus pandemic. 
 
Food banks are playing vital roles, and they need continued support if they are to address the economic hardships faced within the communities they serve. The COVID-19 emergency highlights the “hub” role of local churches and food banks. It is also challenging those who organize them to find innovative ways to serve their communities’ social needs. 

(Based on: April 30, 2020, Theos article)