Reimagining the Dignity Service System
In recent years, climate change and rising food prices have led to a widespread escalation of food poverty in the UK. Food security and dietary health issues are posing serious threats to residents. Food banks have become essential infrastructure for addressing the crisis faced by those experiencing food poverty. Utilizing an ethnographic research approach, I conducted a study of the Mustard Tree food bank in Manchester. I found that food bank users often feel stigmatized or discriminated against when using the facility, as food banks are perceived as private domains that ordinary people typically do not utilize.
Considering these issues, this project starts from the traditional food bank service system, reflecting on its drawbacks and reimagining a dignified food bank service system. I will use the concept of "give a man a fish and you feed him for a day; teach a man to fish and you feed him for a lifetime" to explore the potential relationships between the community, food banks, and schools. The project aims to provide food and skills education facilities for those experiencing food poverty within the community and schools. By involving food-insecure individuals in the operation of the service system, the project seeks to achieve a sustainable circular economy.
Although providing food assistance in emergencies is necessary, in the long run, teaching healthy eating habits and life skills to people experiencing food poverty is more important. This way, they can learn how to choose, prepare, and enjoy healthy food, thereby breaking free from reliance on food aid and leading more independent and healthy lives.
