By Claire Winson - HWB Communications
FoodBank South Africa (FoodBank SA) has been formally accepted into the Global Foodbanking Network (GFN), a US-based charitable organisation that works to reduce world hunger.
Executive Director of FoodBank South Africa, Geoff Penny, said, “The criteria for GFN membership are stringent. Having our application accepted sends a strong message that we conform to international foodbank management standards.”
FoodBank SA will receive several benefits from joining the alliance. The GFN has developed more than a dozen foodbanks around the world; member foodbanks are now able to draw from this experience. There will be assistance in developing partnerships and relationships with sponsors. Funding support, logistical, operational and technology support is available, as well as an assurance that FoodBank SA complies with food safety standards.
GFN President Bob Forney congratulated the newest member of the network and said, “There is still a lot that must be accomplished but the South African FoodBank Network is now a part of a global family dedicated to food security for all of our neighbors.”
South Africa Forum for Food Security, which was initiated by the GFN, was formed in early 2008 to analyse the splintered approach of hunger relief in South Africa. FoodBank SA was formed as a result of this analysis.