Does it really get there?
This is the common question we are asked.
People will say "I heard from somewhere that the food doesn't get through."
The secret to the success of the Foodgrains Bank consistently getting over 95% of the food to the intended destination, is simple.
Work with trusted partners on the ground in the area where you ship!
The greatest strength of the Foodgrains Bank is the vast network the 13 church members have. Between them they cover the globe and have both history and experience in nearly every country on our planet.
When a disaster happens, they quickly talk to each other to determine who has the people and organizations to manage and distribute the food and resources. One time it might be the United Church's partner in Mozambique, another time it might be Mennonite Central Committee's local country representative in Honduras, or it could be the Adventist Church in Bangladesh.
Then, by sharing this information and working together they can ensure the food will be programmed by respected and competent local groups.
Why not 100% you may ask?
Well, no one is perfect.
Sometimes bags can be torn while loading or unloading, sometimes moisture may seep in the corner of a storage area and in some cases a couple bags may simply be "lost", although this is the exception.
Where necessary, trucks travel in convoys, warehouses may be locked and guarded, and tight controls are in place for access and distribution.
In spite of some daunting logistics in high risk areas, by working with trusted local people and organizations, the food does get through to the right people.