Food Not Bombs Continues to Ignite Controversy

clipped from eatdrinkbetter.com Food Not Bombs, a group dedicated to non-violent social change through feeding the needy, continues to find itself at the center of controversy as they enter their 30th year in existence. Groups in New Mexico, Arizona, Florida, and Connecticut have run afoul of local laws that seek to stop them from handing out free meals in public places to those in need.  Though all Food Not Bombs groups are independent, they share the common goals of feeding vegetarian meals to the hungry while also protesting war and poverty. Food Not Bombs finds food that would otherwise be discarded - from restaurants, grocery stores, and other sources and prepares meals to anyone and everyone. Regardless if you agree or disagree with their tactics, motives and politics, the group does provide an important service of serving meals to those who would otherwise go hungry. In the current economic climate the group is finding larger numbers of people who benefit from a free meal

What is wrong with feeding the hungry? This is a very noble cause these people are supporting. Why does our government force them to get permits for this? Food that would otherwise be thrown away is being eaten.

The chapter in New Mexico has attracted unwanted attention from law enforcement and the Environmental Health Division in their activities.

The Connecticut group was recently ticketed for ignoring a cease and desist order issued by local police for serving food form an unlicensed kitchen.

The Arizona group has been told by city hall that they will need a permit to continue their activities.

In Florida the group secured a legal victory when a judge ruled that handing out food in a public space was an activity protected by the First Amendment

Go to the clip to find more info on each group.