food bank

American  

noun

1. an agency, group, or center that collects food and distributes it to people experiencing food insecurity.

---

Etymology

Origin of food bank

First recorded in 1915–20

Example Sentences

“We’re deeply concerned about the sharp caseload decline we will see beginning this week,” said Nolan Downey, senior director of policy for the Greater Chicago Food Depository, Chicago’s food bank.

From The Wall Street Journal • May 2, 2026

"With gas this high, I go to the food bank now, more so than ever," the retiree told AFP.

From Barron's • May 2, 2026

The shop aims to act as a mix between a food bank and a supermarket, helping people with the cost of living while maintaining a shopping experience, its organisers said.

From BBC • Apr. 23, 2026

At times, she hasn’t received fruit in the boxes she receives from the food bank.

From Salon • Apr. 9, 2026

One of the old hospital buildings was now a food bank; others housed the Police Criminal Investigation Division, an alternative high school, and a Rotary club.

From "The Immortal Life of Henrietta Lacks" by Rebecca Skloot