MFU & MFBN strengthening food security for Montanans

People in every county and every reservation in Montana are impacted by Montana Food Bank Network’s programs, which have provided nearly 14 million meals in the 2025 fiscal year alone.

Through partnerships with local and national food manufacturers and agriculturalists, MFBN is able to provide up to four meals for $1. Annually, more than 16 million pounds of food is distributed through MFBN to the 1 in 8 Montanans experiencing food insecurity. For children, that number is even greater at 1 in 6.

The network’s BackPack program serves 4,000 students each month, and other programs include: childhood nutrition/summer nutrition, Hunters Against Hunger, Mail-a-Meal, Retail Food Rescue, and school pantries.

Montana Food Bank Network also does SNAP outreach and supports applications.

“As we approach the holiday season, Montana Food Bank Network remains committed to ensuring Montanans have access to the food they need to thrive. This year, with the uncertainty surrounding the government shutdown, our team and Network Partners are working tirelessly to ensure food is accessible in communities across the state. We’re proud of the strength and collaboration that define our network and remain focused on meeting the needs of our neighbors during this critical time,” said Gayle Carlson, Montana Food Bank Network President and CEO.

MFBN accepts donations multiple ways, including monetary donations that allow them to leverage dollars through their networks to purchase large quantities and cover transportation costs. Explore options here: www.mfbn.org/get-involved/. 

Folks who are looking for resources or food pantries near them can visit www.mfbn.org/get-help for a detailed, clickable map showing all of MFBN Network Partners across the state along with the pertinent websites, hours, and contact information.