Many ministries are involved in community outreach programs that involve distributing food. From food banks to soup kitchens, ministries are helping neighbors with spiritual and physical needs. As your ministry distributes food, it is important to keep the following risk management practices in mind.
Your ministry may also be afforded some protection from liability by federal law. When your ministry facilitates the transfer of food items to individuals in need or other food pantries, the Bill Emerson Good Samaritan Food Donation Act may provide you with some protection. This Act promotes food recovery and gleaning by limiting the liability of donors to instances of gross negligence or intentional misconduct. Local and state laws may also provide immunity from civil liability regarding food donation operations.
It’s important to note that even if some immunity arguably applies to a claim against your ministry, in most cases an attorney will still need to be hired to defend your ministry. If you have a liability policy with Brotherhood Mutual, insurance coverage will likely apply to pay the costs of such a defense.
Thank you for your interest in Brotherhood Mutual. We appreciate the opportunity to provide your church or other ministry with an insurance quote and will reply to your request as soon as possible.
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