Food Bank Amsterdam remains open in a ‘smart’ way

Despite many distribution locations of the Food Bank in the Netherlands being closed during this coronavirus crisis, the food bank in Amsterdam still provides food to the two hundred Amsterdam households that depend on them. But in a slightly different way. We spoke with Anne, one of the approximately 10 volunteers who keep Food Bank West running.“With so much hoarding going on, we are receiving much less to distribute. Additionally, some of our volunteers are also part of the at-risk group. This means we cannot deploy everyone. So, we need to handle things a bit smarter,” says Anne from the Food Bank in Amsterdam West.

‘We are all Amsterdammers, and for the city, I do everything’

The new plan has been initiated by the suppliers of the Food Bank and donations. Households now receive food vouchers that can be used. The vouchers have a value of 15 euros and are distributed per person. In the end, this amounts to the same value that households normally receive. But now they can do their own shopping. (text continues below the photos)Translation:No content to translate.The vouchers were distributed last week in ‘Goodie Bags’, bags provided by the Volunteer Center Amsterdam. They are also filled with non-perishable products that the Food Bank still had in stock. “The nice thing about these bags is that they can be used for a longer period. And it feels good that everyone is helping out. We are all Amsterdammers, and for the city, I do everything I can. I am surprised by the good network that we have; giving is also fun, of course.”

Reviewing the situation from week to week

The distribution locations in Amsterdam will remain open. “We are a bit like activists. You simply can’t close the doors of the Food Bank. As long as possible, we try to come up with solutions. Such as waiting outside, keeping 1.5 meters distance, entering and exiting, and giving out vouchers. We assess week by week what is possible.”

Anne is worried about the future. “I am afraid of the recession that is coming. Many people will go bankrupt, and for those people, this is dramatic. We will soon see an increase in requests.”Interview: Michelle Engel

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