During the COVID-19 pandemic, many people lost their sources of income, leading to an increase in the demand for food assistance. Food banks became the ultimate alternative as families and children attempted to avoid hunger. However, the selection of people who are eligible for food rations can be a challenge. For instance, there was a need to assess communities, households, income levels, and the severity of the need for assistance. Working with the community need assessment team from a local food bank, I was able to engage with diverse members of the community. Therefore, in this essay, I reflect on my role at the food bank and the gains I made from the placement experience as a form of civic engagement. [...]