Our the Food Acquisition team works in unison with our network of agencies to identify the types of food that the community needs and works to secure enough product to meet the demand. The food supply includes core items that most households use on a regular basis. Philabundance emphasizes quality foods that promote good health in all populations that we serve.

The Food Acquisition department solicits wholesalers, retailers, food brokers, food distributors and the food industry for needed donated product. We secure food through food drives and donations, but the quantity and variety of donated food will never adequately meet the needs of the community, so we have to call upon others to help. Philabundance also purchases necessary products at discounted bulk rates that are needed, but not available through donations through the donations of our supporters.

In 2006, we acquired 26 million pounds of food and distributed 17 million pounds of food in our service area, and exported 8 million pounds of surplus food to assist other area food banks. The food Philabundance acquires is distributed through our network of close to 600 member agencies in the Delaware Valley. These agencies include food cupboards, neighborhood distributions, shelters, emergency kitchens and various social service agencies with special programs such as daycares and senior centers that serve those in need.

Philabundance provides food if and when a disaster strikes. During the Hurricane Katrina aftermath Philabundance was the fourth largest provider of food to the Gulf.

Philabundance is supported by contributions from individuals, corporations, businesses, foundations, and religious and civic groups. In 2006, food donations accounted for approximately 92 percent of the food we delivered; 4 percent was purchased. Government commodities accounted for the remaining 4 percent.