Why this Salvation Army Client Believes Offering Allergen-Free Options at Food Banks is Important

While grocery expenses are at an all-time high, families and individuals dealing with food intolerances and allergies are forced to make impossible choices when faced with the ever-growing issue of food insecurity. To give us a better understanding of these realities, Brandy, a single mother with a disability that prevents her from working, shared her experience with food insecurity, The Salvation Army, and the challenges she faces due to her family’s dietary needs.

“Nine dollars for a loaf of gluten-free bread, $4.50 for a carton of almond milk, and over $15for meat substitutes. The grocery store can quickly become a money sink when your family lives with dietary restrictions.”

When Brandy, a mother of two, goes shopping, she is forced to carefully consider what she is putting in her cart due to lactose intolerance, gluten intolerance, and peanut allergy in her family.

“The cost is so much sometimes I try to ignore some of my dietary needs. I’m like, ‘I’m not going to die if I eat it, and I can’t afford the alternative. So what if I’m a little bit miserable and it causes inflammation in my muscles and joints.'”

The solution, Brandy proposes, is to work on awareness surrounding the need for allergen-free alternatives in food banks, such as lactose-free milk, gluten-free pasta, and peanut-free products. By doing so, they can help ensure that everyone, regardless of their dietary restrictions, has access to suitable and nutritious food.

“That’s not to say I’m not grateful to The Salvation Army for their continued support. In the past, I’ve used their clothing and furniture programs, and I still access the food bank to alleviate some of the costs. I simply want to be part of the solution when it comes to accommodating individuals with food intolerances and allergies, and I hope to work with The Salvation Army to accomplish that.”

Brandy’s story highlights the unique challenges faced by individuals with food intolerances and allergies in their struggle with food insecurity. It serves as a reminder that food banks and charitable organizations can make a significant impact by expanding their offerings to include options that cater to diverse dietary needs.

The next time you donate to your local food bank, consider people like Brandy and her family, and think about including some gluten-free pasta or almond milk. It could mean the world to a family struggling with the harsh realities of their dietary needs.

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