Food banks are popping almost everywhere, and it’s great. They are grateful for any help, but if you’re planning on making a donation, make sure that it’s an effective one. Before you donate to your local food bank, it’s a good idea to check first the items they need and the ones they won’t accept. This way, you will have a more productive time at the grocery store, and you will be able to help the food bank with their supplies.
It’s easy to fill your cart with delicious, instant, and junk-y food stuff. In fact, a lot of food banks have them. Always keep in mind that the people who benefit from these food banks don’t have a lot to eat, which could mean they lack nutrition. That is why when donating food items, make sure that they’re healthy and nutritious.
What Food Banks Don’t Need
Before you do grocery shopping or raid your pantry for things to give to a local food bank, you need to know what they don’t need first. Many people tend to give away items that aren’t necessary. To prevent this from happening, we have compiled a list of the items you shouldn’t donate to a food bank.
Foods in Glass Jars
Pickles, sauces, and other goods are often in glass jars. They should be avoided when donating to a food bank. Glass jars can shatter in transit, which would damage other goods.
Fresh Dairy
Okay, not all food banks can’t accept fresh dairy, but you need to be mindful of this. Should you donate fresh dairy, you must double-check with the food bank first if they allow it. If they do, make sure it’s properly packaged and shelf-stable.
Bulk Food Items
Bulk-buying of foods, such as bags of rice, sugar, etc. may seem like a great idea, but you shouldn’t donate bulky food items because many food banks don’t have re-packaging resources to distribute them properly. Should you buy in bulk, perhaps consider repacking them first before donating them to a food bag. On the other hand, you can stick to family-sized bags and boxes.
Candy
Some food banks could give you some candy, but there is now a growing number of food banks asking people not to donate sweets. This is because they’re prioritizing to give away nutritious foods to families instead.
Refrigerated Items
Not all food banks accept produce and meat; that is why it pays to double-check. Some food banks may be able to accept this, but it will depend on the existing resources and facilities, and most food banks don’t have them. Again, double-check before you donate!
Homemade Foods
Sure, it may seem like a nice gesture to make some batches of cookies you made with your cookies, from scratch, but remember: food banks won’t be able to accept items that aren’t packed well. That’s why unless you can have them packaged well that will meet food banks’ certain standards, just buy from the grocery store.
Leftovers
If you think you can give away your leftovers to food banks, think again. These leftovers are similar to homemade baked goods that are not allowed. Instead of giving them to a food bank, why don’t you whip up something different with your leftover food? Get creative!
It is true that food banks often have high-sugar cereals and junk foods. While food banks are happy to accept all donations, if you really want to contribute the best items, always go for nutritious ones, such as a healthier box of cereal, tuna, etc. Fortunately, you can get healthy stuff that are delicious these days. What’s important is that you donate nutritious items. Remember, these are families that need them the most!
What Do Food Banks Need
Now, the question is, what do they really need? It’s essential to have a general idea of what food banks DO need.
Some of the items that will be very much appreciated in food banks are:
- Peanut butter: Thanks to its high level of protein, peanut butter can easily be scooped up by food banks. Additionally, peanut butter often goes on sale.
- Nutrient-dense cereals and oatmeal: Since breakfast is the most important meal of the day, nutrient-dense cereals and oatmeal are perfect for families who need more nutrition.
- Baby food: Baby food pouches or jars are great.
- Toilet paper: Having no toilet paper is such a struggle and you know this. What more the families who can’t afford to buy them? Donate two-ply toilet paper if you can.
- Pasta & pasta sauce: Pasta is a quick way to whip up a meal, and when it comes to carbs, this is one of the favorites. And you can’t have pasta without the sauce, so, throw in some good pasta sauce there.
- Beans & lentils: There are many ways you can prepare beans, which is ideal for many families. If you can, get beans and lentils that contain lower sodium.
- Canned meat: This is easy to eat and is shelf-stable. Moreover, it comes with a good dose of protein, too!
- Tuna & other canned fish: Tuna has 30 grams of protein, which is why it’s one of the most sought-after items when it comes to food banks.
- Canned fruits and vegetables: If you can, go for healthier options. There are many canned vegetables containing high sodium levels; therefore, you need to read the label before you purchase it.
- Feminine hygiene products: Can you imagine if you can’t take care of what’s down there, especially if you’re a woman? When shopping for items to donate to a food bank, throw in some feminine hygiene products. For sure, a lot of people will be able to make use of them.
Are you ready to make more effective donations to food banks today? Of course, you do! Knowing what food banks don’t need and what they need will go a long way; and you will be able to help a lot of families who need them most.
