Five city centre schools and three creches are availing of in-house food banks provided by Cork Penny Dinners
The charity said they have seen a stronger demand for help this year in particular as the cost-of-living crisis continues to bite.
The foods, mainly non-perishable items, are displayed on shelving in discreet areas of schools and creches to make the service as low-key as possible.
Catriona Twomey told RedFM the discreet initiative allows parents to get the help they need without the need to divulge their financial difficulties to their child's teacher.
“The reason we do it is because if you’re short on one or two items, and you don't have the money for it, you're going to have to wait until the next payment comes through,” she said.
“If we can provide food and help the family get through, then I think it’s absolutely worth it.”
