Philanthropy is based on voluntary action for the common good. It is a tradition of giving and sharing that is primary to the quality of life. To ensure that philanthropy merits the respect and trust of the general public and that donors and prospective donors can have full confidence in the Foodbank of Santa Barbara County, we declare that all donors have these rights:

• To be informed of the Foodbank's mission, of the way the Foodbank intends to use donated resources, and of its capacity to use donations effectively for their intended purposes.

• To be informed of the identity of those serving on the Foodbank’s governing board, and to expect the board to exercise prudent judgment in its stewardship responsibilities.

• To have access to the Foodbank’s most recent financial statements.

• To be assured that gifts will be used for the purposes for which they were given.

• To receive appropriate acknowledgement and recognition.

• To be assured that information about their donations is handled with respect and with confidentiality to the extent provided by law.

• To expect that all relationships with individuals representing the Foodbank will be professional in nature.

• To be informed whether those seeking donations are volunteers or employees of the organization.

• To be assured that your names or addresses will never be shared or sold.

• To feel free to ask questions when making a donation and to receive prompt, truthful and forthright answers.