Better IT for Food Bank
St. John’s Bread and Life, a food bank located in New York City, found an innovative approach using information technology to help make things run operations run a bit more smoothly. Distributing food became digital, allowed for those who need specific items to better receive them. More choices for clients are a result of digital inventory control and sales systems, also referred to as ‘point of sale’ system. This process allows each client to receive there own personal identification number and brings in a substantial amount of data that this and other food pantries can utilize to continue developing better ways to prepare food for the impoverished and in emergency situations. Each client uses a touch screen to choose there food with a limited amount of points. Healthier choices are worth less points than non healthy foods, and clients are finding it easier to receive specific groceries that they might need because of a certain condition. The new system also aims at using more locally grown fresh produce and has allowed for many more low-income families to not only receive food more adequately, but eat healthier at the same time. It seems as if New York City is ahead of the curve in digitizing food allocation and distribution for pantries around the city.
