You’ve seen it. Every year there’s a viral list of food pantry myths and facts that circulates on social media. What should you really put in the donation bin for your office, school or neighborhood food drive?
Here are some ideas:
- All canned goods are not created equal. Pop-top cans, low-sodium and low-sugar options always get to skip the line.
- Don’t forget the buddy system. Donating dry cereal? Remember to donate (shelf-stable) milk as well.
- Be keen on protein. Canned meat/poultry, canned tuna/salmon (packed in water), canned/dry beans and peas are much appreciated.
- Heat and eat. Ready-to-eat and canned meals are filling and help conserve pantry space.
- Non-perishables come in many shapes and sizes. Bags and boxes are just as good to donate as cans.
- Remember our non-dairy friends. They want shelf-stable milk for their cereal too.
- Sauces, syrups, and other meal enhancers are a great treat. Boxed mashed potatoes are so much better with gravy!
- Butter and eggs are perishable items we can’t accept. If you want to donate baking supplies, baking soda and baking powder are essential for scratch-made sweet treats.
- Beverages are always a hit. Please be mindful of the sugar content in juices.
- Regarding beverages, meal-replacement drinks are appreciated.
- Dried fruit is a great alternative. Raisins, dates, apricots, berries and more supply vitamins without worrying about spoilage.
- Nuts and nut butters are a great source of protein. Think beyond peanuts to be more inclusive of our friends with allergies.
- Baby food and formula are worth their weight in gold.
- Select friendly packaging. A 50lb bag of rice may be a great deal, but it can be challenging for a single family to carry home or store.
- There are many great food-centric holiday meals. One person can only eat so much stuffing. Remember all the other meals and pantry staples this holiday season.
One final thought. If there is a non-perishable food item that you and your family enjoy, chances are there is another family that would enjoy it too. If grain bowls are your thing, consider donating brown rice, quinoa or farro for a healthy base. If your kids can’t get enough squeezable apple sauce, add that to the donation bin too.
Ian Dixon
Volunteer Services Manager
