Strategic Needs Assessment and Framework Development for A Community Food Bank in Naga City

Abstract

This study aimed to assess the sustainability and develop a strategic framework for establishing a community-based food bank for indigent households in selected barangays of Naga City, Philippines. Anchored on the Food and Agriculture Organization’s four dimensions of food security—availability, accessibility, utilization, and stability—the research employed a mixed-methods design involving 100 household respondents and 50 key stakeholders from local government units, non-government organizations, private sector partners, and community groups. Quantitative data were gathered using structured survey instruments, including a household food security assessment and an integrated stakeholder sustainability questionnaire, and analyzed through descriptive statistics, weighted means, and ranking. Findings revealed that while households continue to experience moderate to severe food insecurity—characterized by inconsistent access to nutritious food and vulnerability to economic and environmental shocks—there exists strong institutional readiness, stakeholder willingness, and availability of recoverable food resources. However, challenges related to logistics, storage, coordination, and long-term financing were identified as critical constraints. Through methodological triangulation, the study developed the N.A.G.A. Food Bank Strategic Framework, integrating needs assessment, resource mobilization, stakeholder collaboration, and sustainability mechanisms within local governance systems. The proposed model emphasizes multi-sectoral partnerships, policy support, and community engagement to ensure operational viability and long-term resilience. The study concludes that a structured, systems-oriented food bank model can serve as a sustainable intervention to address urban food insecurity while reducing food waste and strengthening social protection mechanisms in Naga City.