How FBM Keeps Client Info Safe and Agencies Confident

How does FoodBank Manager protect client privacy?

FoodBank Manager (FBM) is built on a core commitment to protect the privacy and dignity of every individual served. Unlike legacy systems that centralize sensitive client data in one shared database, FBM takes a modern and decentralized approach to privacy, security, and data control.

Private Databases for Each Agency

Each partner agency in FBM has its own private, secure database. This means:

• Client records are never shared across agencies by default

• No other agency can view, search, or edit a client’s data

• Agencies retain a sense of ownership and trust in their data

Why it matters: Shared databases can expose PII (personally identifiable information) across hundreds of agencies. FBM prevents this risk by design.

Depersonalized Data for Food Bank Reporting - Built to Meet the Needs of the Food Bank

To provide food banks with regional insights and aggregate reporting, FBM uses a Data Lake. However, the data sent to this reporting system is depersonalized:

• Names and addresses are converted into hashed values (e.g., “Don DeDecker” becomes 2a54b8a06...)

• Personally identifying details are removed or anonymized

• If a breach occurred, the data would be useless to attackers

Example: A hashed address might appear as fdfb808a2d..., showing visit patterns but never revealing real identities.

No Shared Search Functionality

In systems with a shared database, users can search statewide for common names like “John Smith” — often resulting in accidental merges, overwrites, or data leaks. FBM eliminates this issue:

• Each agency searches only within its own database

• FBM supports multi-field search (e.g., Name + Address + DOB)

• Volunteers and staff are less likely to create duplicates or access the wrong profile

Threat Prevention by Design

Why Privacy Matters to Agencies

Privacy isn’t just about security — it also protects funding, trust, and client dignity. Many agencies:

• Serve undocumented or vulnerable populations

• Depend on restricted grants tied to specific demographics (e.g., veterans, seniors)

• Need assurance that client data won’t be altered or accessed by other organizations

FBM empowers these agencies to operate confidently and independently — while still giving food banks the insights they need to lead.

Summary

FoodBank Manager’s privacy model is based on real-world food pantry concerns and 10+ years of experience. Its approach:

• Honors client dignity and trust

• Prevents agency data from being exposed or misused

• Offers robust aggregate reporting without compromising privacy