The Cuban tiktoker "kurly_la_peque", who resides in Louisville, Kentucky, recently shared a video on her profile showcasing the items she received from a food bank in the United States. Known for offering advice to immigrants and sharing her personal experiences, she expressed her amazement at the quantity and variety of food she was given, sparking significant interest among her followers.
"Today, I'm going to show you what I got from the food bank. I discovered a new place and will share all the information for those interested," she began in her video on @kurly_la_peque, which has already garnered over 305,000 views. In the video, Kurly displayed an array of items including bread, pizzas, butter, hot dogs, chickens, and even non-food items like acetone.
"Honestly, they give you a lot of things. I never imagined they would give so much," she commented, visibly surprised as she showed off her haul. Kurly also mentioned that at this food bank, you don't even need to get out of your car, as everything is placed directly into your trunk. She explained that this assistance is available once a month, and the quantity of products delivered was substantial, surprising both her and her husband, who accompanied her.
The video has elicited thousands of reactions from users, many of whom are also immigrants in various parts of the United States eager to learn more about this resource. "Is there one in Miami, Florida?"; "Please tell me where in New York it is"; "Where is it in Kentucky, please," were some of the comments seeking the exact location of the food bank. Meanwhile, other users shared their own experiences: "There are food banks in every state, just search for the closest one to your area. I know because I volunteer at several food banks," one follower commented.
Critical comments and concerns about the accessibility of these food banks were also noted. "The downside of these food banks is that 95% of them say they're only for Cubans and Haitians, and other nationalities can't access them," one user pointed out. Another added, "Almost all the food is just to add calories," to which another responded, "Better to add calories than to starve."
The video also sparked debates about the use of these resources by people perceived not to need them. "Don't you work to buy your own things? Why did you come to this country? What a shame," one user remarked.
Kurly la Peque, who also offers advice for housekeepers in the U.S., invited her followers to contact her for more details about this food bank, including the address and the days it operates. "If you want to go, want the address, send me a message and I'll tell you," she said.
Insights into Food Banks for Immigrants in the U.S.
Given the growing interest in food banks among immigrants in the United States, we have compiled some frequently asked questions to provide more clarity on this topic.
Where can I find food banks in my area?
You can find food banks in every state by searching for "food bank near me" online. Many local resources and community centers can also provide information on food banks in your area.
Are food banks only available to certain nationalities?
While some food banks may have specific eligibility criteria, many are open to everyone in need, regardless of nationality. It's best to check with the individual food bank for their specific requirements.
How often can I visit a food bank?
The frequency with which you can visit a food bank varies by location. Some may allow visits once a week, while others may only permit once a month. Check with your local food bank for their specific policies.
What types of items can I expect to receive from a food bank?
Food banks typically offer a variety of items including non-perishable foods, fresh produce, dairy products, and sometimes non-food items like toiletries and cleaning supplies. The offerings can vary based on donations and availability.