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Food banks are non-profit charitable organizations that distribute food to people in need. They usually distribute through intermediaries, such as soup kitchens and food pantries, but some operate directly. In the United States, there are over 700 food banks, and distributing food is a vital part of their mission. Food banks can also help people in need in many other ways.

The first food bank in Europe was opened in France in 1984. Since then, food banks have grown in popularity across continental Europe. According to Professor Jon May of Queen Mary University and the Independent Food Aid Network, the number of food banks has increased rapidly in the last five years. Food banks are vital but often struggle to provide nutritious, balanced food.

Many food banks receive food donated from many sources. These could include businesses, churches, the public, and supermarkets. Volunteer food bank workers sort the donations. Once the donated food is processed, food banks give out emergency food parcels to those in need. These parcels contain three days worth of nutritious, non-perishable food.

Food banks have always had to feed the hungry. But the COVID-19 pandemic has made it more difficult. Food banks are also being affected by rising costs. Volunteers may be afraid of their safety or even be reluctant to work at a food bank. As a result, many senior citizens are delaying volunteering in these organizations, which can affect the food banks’ mission.

Food banks can increase the nutritional value of the food they distribute. Food banks can benefit from partnering up with local farmers, even though they may be reluctant to adhere to strict nutrition standards. These farmers can support local farmers and help food banks increase their local food supply. A recent survey of 137 food banks found that only 39 percent had an organizational nutrition policy.

Food banks distribute food to the poor, but they also run food pantries. Whether they are mobile distributions or permanent locations, food pantries are often the only free source of nutritious food in a neighborhood. These agencies offer nutrition education and screenings. Many pantries also offer back-to-school supplies.

Food banks also work closely with hospitals. They often work with hospitals to provide nutrition education for patients. Food pantries can also benefit from community benefit grants that support their efforts. These grants help food banks purchase and store fresh foods for distribution in the community. Food banks can also be assisted by hospitals in establishing healthy food sourcing programs through partnerships with local farmers.

While food banks are essential for people in need, the federal government has a major role in helping those in need. SNAP, formerly known as food stamps, provides assistance to over 35 million people in the US. It reaches nine times as many people than the Feeding America network.

“Sometimes your joy is the source of your smile, but sometimes your smile can be the source of your joy.” – Thich Nhat Hanh

Depending on what stage you are in of orthodontic treatment, smiling may be the last thing you want to do. Whether you’re just starting with braces or [dcl=123668 or near the very end, your confidence may have taken a tumble. With a new year comes a new mindset and we’ve got 8 reasons to expose your beautiful smile to the world in 2023:

1. Smiles are contagious. Studies have shown that people have a difficult time frowning when someone else is smiling at them. In fact, they couldn’t help but smile themselves. Make a habit throughout the year to compliment the people you meet with a smile and watch them pay it forward.

2. Smiles relieve stress. When you smile, the body releases endorphins that help quickly change your mood. This makes you feel better, thus relieving your body of stress. Try smiling even when you don’t feel like it and notice the difference.

3. It is easier to smile than frown. Did you know the body uses more muscles to frown than it does to smile? That means you have to put forth more effort to look sad than to simply appear happy. Turn that frown upside down in 2023 and give your muscles a break.

4. It boosts your immune system. Scientists have found that smiling relaxes the body, allowing it to build a stronger immune system and contributing to overall good health. Smile more this year. You could be helping your body fight sickness.

5. Helps you get promoted. People who smile often appear to be more attractive, social and confident. These people are also most likely to get promoted at work. Smile more at work this year. It could lead to your next promotion.

6. Smiles are more attractive than makeup. A recent study shows that women who do not wear makeup but are smiling appear to be more attractive to men. Save yourself the extra time in the morning and put on a smile instead of a full face. You just might get a date.

7. Smiles are the most recognizable facial expression. Did you know that a smile can be recognized from up to 300 feet away? Flash your beautiful smile when out in public or in big groups and help people find you easier.

8. People who smile live longer. Previously, we mentioned that smiling boosts your immune system. One large benefit of that is a longer lifespan. Science says that people who smile often live an average of 7 years longer than those who do not. Lengthen your time on this earth by smiling more in 2023.

Do you have questions about your smile?

Greater Houston Orthodontics has years of proven experience creating healthy, beautiful smiles for patients of all ages. If you have not yet started - or have questions, contact our office for a complimentary evaluation. Start the new year feeling confident with your - and the benefits that come with a gorgeous smile.