The head of communication of the Estonian Food Bank, Sven Lillepalu, said that the amount of assistance provided by the Food Bank is stable. In recent years, approximately 17,500 people have received weekly assistance. Last year, 4.4 million kilograms of food were distributed.
Donations to the Food Bank mainly come from three sources: 80% from retailers, 15% from producers and importers, and 5% from private individuals. These proportions have remained the same in recent years.
The Food Bank cooperates with many Estonian retail chains, producers, and importers. The Food Bank is constantly seeking new cooperation partners. Every week, the Food Bank has nearly 400 volunteers.
The most donated items to the Food Bank are bread and fruits and vegetables. The reason for this is the short shelf life of these products. The Food Bank also distributes pasta, rice, and canned goods.
The Food Bank distributes food through 16 local food banks and more than 270 charitable organizations. Lists of needy individuals are obtained by the Food Bank from local government social workers.
All food that reaches the Food Bank is distributed to those in need. In addition, the Food Bank purchases long-lasting food items a couple of times a year. The contents of the food parcels depend on the donated food, which is why it varies every week.
In recent years, the Food Bank's revenues have decreased. Charitable activities are often the first to be reduced in difficult times. The first Food Bank, Tallinn Food Bank, started operations in 2010.