Food Banks:
Our MSP and LIS consumers need to make a limited income go as far as possible on groceries. As a result, many utilize local food banks to help stretch their grocery budget. Your goal when marketing food banks is to first educate the “gatekeepers” that manage the food bank on how you can assist the consumer and help them gain access to more resources. Bring a packet that highlights the various resources, such as LIS help, DSNP healthy foods, OTC catalog, dental, etc, that you can show to the food bank organizers.
As you build a relationship with the organizers, you can request permission to post these materials, hold an informal sales event with a table and popup banner where you can answer questions and pass out flyers/materials. You can also ask if you can include your flyer highlighting assistance or resources in each of the food boxes that go out. Remember, the key is to make sure the gatekeepers understand how you can help the consumers at food banks. If including your flyer can potentially help their consumers in a real way, then the gatekeepers are more likely to include them in the packaging.
Food bank tips:
- Don’t conduct this marketing during mealtimes when organizers are too busy to talk
- Don’t call first. Simply drop by so you can speak face-to-face
- Thank the organizer and follow up with a thank you card or phone call
- Maintain your new relationship with regular visits and communications
- Replenish any posted flyers or materials