Become an Agency Partner
We partner with food pantries, homeless shelters, soup kitchens, children’s programs, senior centers, and other organizations committed to providing food assistance in their communities. By joining our network, your organization gains access to essential resources, including food donations, training, and support to strengthen your hunger-relief efforts.
Why Become a Partner?
As a partner agency, you will:
- Access food resources – Receive food from Food Bank of Alaska to distribute through your programs
- Expand your impact – Reach more people in need with reliable food assistance
- Join a statewide network – Connect with other hunger-relief organizations, share best practices, and receive training and operational support
- Strengthen food security – Help build a hunger-free Alaska with support from Food Bank of Alaska
Who Can Apply?
Organizations eligible for partnership include:
- Any organization or business that wants to make a different in their community
- Nonprofits with a 501(c)(3) status or faith-based organizations offering food assistance
- Agencies that provide food directly to the public through emergency food services or meal programs
- Groups committed to safe food handling practices and equitable food distribution
For federal food program partnerships serving individuals, families, seniors, and children, contact programs@foodbankofalaska.org for more details.
How to Apply
- Review the eligibility criteria – Ensure your organization meets the requirements
- Submit an application – The agency director must complete the application
- Application review – Due to high demand, review and approval times may be extended
- Facility inspection – A Food Bank of Alaska staff member will contact you for supporting documentation and to schedule an on-site inspection
YOU MAY NEED TO KNOW
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the purpose of becoming an agency partner with Food Bank of Alaska?
Food Bank of Alaska partners with organizations that share our commitment to equitable and dignified service, health and nutrition, innovation, and continuous improvement. With limited resources, we carefully evaluate new partnerships to maximize our impact and ensure our agency network receives high-quality food and support.
What are the basic eligibility requirements to apply?
To be considered for partnership, an organization must:
- Be a nonprofit with a 501(c)(3) status or operate under a fiscal agent with 501(c)(3) status.
- Serve vulnerable populations as part of its mission.
- Operate from a commercial location (not a private residence) unless it is a qualifying facility like a shelter or group home.
- Distribute food at no cost and not require payment, reimbursement, or services in exchange for food.
- Have adequate food storage in a commercial space, with at least one functioning refrigerator and freezer, and maintain written temperature logs.
- Have a financial plan to sustain a food program.
- Ensure the primary food contact holds a valid Food Safety Handling Certification.
- Maintain a consistent distribution schedule at least once a month in an easily accessible location.
- Be registered on Alaska 211 and provide additional resource information (such as SNAP outreach materials) to those seeking assistance.
What types of organizations does Food Bank of Alaska prioritize for partnership?
Food Bank of Alaska seeks partners that go beyond traditional food distribution methods and are committed to quality, equity, and dignity in service. Organizations should demonstrate a strong ability to serve their community, provide wraparound services, and maintain reliable food access for those in need.
What is the application process?
- Submit an application – The agency director must complete the Request for Partnership (RFP).
- Review process – A committee of Food Bank of Alaska staff will evaluate applications based on eligibility, impact, and capacity.
- Facility inspection – If approved, a Food Bank of Alaska staff member will contact you to gather supporting documentation and schedule an on-site visit.
- Final decision – Agencies will be notified of their approval status and may request a review of their evaluation if needed.
What supporting documents are required?
Applicants must provide:
- A copy of their IRS 501(c)(3) determination letter or fiscal agent linkage letter
- A current list of the Board of Directors
- A food program budget or a statement confirming no official budget
- Proof of registration with Alaska 211 (a printed listing or pending application is sufficient)
- A Food Handler’s card or ServSafe certification for the primary food contact
- General liability insurance coverage verification
How long does the approval process take?
The timeframe for application review varies based on demand. While we work diligently to process applications, wait times may be longer due to high interest in partnership. Approved agencies will be contacted to schedule a site inspection before final approval.
How does Food Bank of Alaska support its partner agencies?
As a partner, your organization will gain access to:
- Food resources to distribute in your community
- Training and operational support to improve food handling, storage, and distribution
- Networking opportunities with other hunger-relief organizations
- Advocacy and awareness support to help strengthen food security efforts in Alaska
How can I learn more or check my application status?
For questions about eligibility, the application process, or partnership requirements, contact programs@foodbankofalaska.org.