Posted on 11/03/2023 9:22:02 AM PDT by Diana in Wisconsin
When you give to your local food bank, make sure you're stocking their shelves with what they really need—and avoid what they don't.
Next time you’re headed to the grocery store, bulk up your shopping list with a few of these non-perishable items from Feeding America‘s wish list. They’re the items food pantries—and your neighbors in need—can really put to good use.
1. Applesauce
Plastic jars of unsweetened applesauce provide a quick snack, fiber and vitamin C. Applesauce also keeps well on food bank shelves.
2. Canned Beans
Loaded with protein and fiber, canned beans provide an excellent, nutritious way to fill a hungry tummy. Opt for the low-sodium varieties whenever possible.
3. Canned Chicken
It’s simple to toss this non-perishable item into soups and casseroles or add it to a sandwich or cracker. Its versatility and high protein content make it a popular item at food banks.
4. Canned Fish (Tuna and Salmon)
Canned fish has vitamins, omega-3 fatty acids and protein, and it makes for a quick and easy meal. Food banks are most in need of canned tuna and salmon.
5. Canned Meat (SPAM and Ham)
Grab some SPAM or canned ham and drop it into a food donation bin. It’s shelf-stable, doesn’t require much prep or equipment to eat, and delivers a quick hit of protein to keep individuals feeling full for longer.
6. Canned Vegetables
Colorful, nutrient-dense and fiber-rich vegetables are always in high demand, and canned varieties last the longest on a food bank’s shelves. Look for low-sodium options. Food banks often hand out recipes using the items they have. Consider including this recipe for a hearty casserole made with canned veggies along with your donation for the food pantry to share.
7. Cooking Oils (Olive and Canola)
Food banks rely heavily on these essential and pricier items being donated. Canola and olive oils are the best choices because of their monounsaturated fats and mild flavor. Our guide to cooking oils can help make sure you’re buying the healthiest options.
8. Crackers
Perfect as a snack or as a base for canned meats, crackers are shelf-stable and portable, making them ideal for snacks and lunches. Whole grain crackers are the best bet.
9. Dried Herbs and Spices
It’s hard to cook a tasty meal without herbs and spices, so drop some in your cart to donate. Stick to the basics, like oregano, basil, cumin, pepper, rosemary, thyme and cinnamon.
10. Fruit (Canned or Dried)
Fruit, whether dried, canned or in plastic cups, makes excellent snacks for kids and adults and provide some nutrition and fiber. Choose those that are packed in water or fruit juice rather than sugary syrups.
11. Granola Bars
Food banks are always in need of quick and easy items that families can toss into lunches or eat on the go, and granola bars are just the thing. Look for ones with less sugar made with oats or other whole grains.
12. Instant Mashed Potatoes
Instant potatoes last longer and require minimal tools and ingredients to whip up. They’re also a favorite of every age group, making them a popular item. Pass on this recipe for instant potatoes jazzed up with garlic powder for the food bank to share with its visitors (and send along some garlic powder too).
13. Meals in a Box
An entire meal that’s shelf-stable and in one package—dinner doesn’t get easier than that, which is plus for those without stocked kitchens. Look for pasta, rice and soup kits, especially those that are lower in sodium and higher in fiber and protein.
14. Nuts
A handful of nuts provides protein and nutrients in a hurry and is perfect for snacks and lunches. Food banks have a hard time finding them due to their higher price, so donations are essential. Opt for unsalted varieties when possible.
15. Pasta
This is a food bank staple since it’s easy to turn into a meal. Whole grain varieties offer more fiber and nutrition than white pasta.
16. Peanut Butter
Kids and adults like it, and it’s high in protein, making peanut butter one of the most popular items at food banks. Look for varieties that are lower in sugar, and check out our editors’ list of the best tasting picks.
17. Rice
It’s filling, versatile and easy to prepare and store. Skip the white stuff and donate brown rice when possible, because it provides more fiber. Quinoa is also a great item to donate.
18. Shelf-stable and Powdered Milk
Because no fridge is required to keep this milk fresh, it’s accessible for everyone. Plus, it provides much-needed calcium and protein.
19. Soup, Stew and Chili
These canned or packaged items acts as a warm and filling lunch or dinner and often come complete with protein (meat) and veggies. If possible, try to find reduced sodium options.
20. Whole Grain Cereal
Here’s another popular item with all ages, since whole grain cereal makes a healthy breakfast or snack. Select varieties that are low in sugar and high in fiber.
And three to skip?
When purchasing items for a food bank, try to avoid:
Junk food
Items with glass or cellophane packaging, which can be broken in transit
Things that need can openers or special equipment (pop-top cans–whether for veggies, meat or fruit–are a plus)
Now all that’s left to do is shop, donate and feel good knowing you’ve helped stock a home with nutritious and filling groceries. Thumbs way up!
My son worked at the Food Pantry when he was in middle school. He came home and announced many of the cars had empty cigarette and beer cartons. It was still a good experience for him. The best thing about the Food Pantry is the giving and serving.
Asking for food for your children on Facebook is like the Baby Milk Factory in Iraq. They always have an excuse for why they can’t. They don’t have a car. They can’t go to the food pantry. The children have a special diet so just give them money.
Thanks for sharing. I applied to volunteer at my Food Pantry, and never head a word back. *SHRUG*
I’ll just donate from the sidelines; I’ve probably dodged a bullet. ;)
It says to avoid things that need can openers. This is asking too much. The pop-top lids on canned items are less sturdy that regular cans.
The people who are struggling are the elderly and working poor. Many times they are just over the limit to receive any help. I volunteered at food pantries in 2 Wisconsin counties. Most probably did not need it.
We donate the toothpaste & brushes from our dentist visits.
Well, ok that is ONE of the many problems with SNAP.
If you are out of work for a week or two and need help or if you suddenly have more people then you planned depending on you then the food banks will help you without any of the paperwork or delay.
Decided after the first time that we would not take the cubs with us. Being cynical is for us old people.
“The pop-top lids on canned items are less sturdy that regular cans.”
Agreed. Those should be the LAST type of cans going into anyone’s emergency stash.
It would be OK for a Food Pantry - that food will probably be used up with in the week, wouldn’t you think?
“The people who are struggling are the elderly and working poor.”
That’s why I feel my donations go to those that REALLY need it in my rural county.
Location matters a LOT when donating - to any worthy cause, really.
“We donate the toothpaste & brushes from our dentist visits.”
We do the same. Thanks for the reminder - I have a bathroom drawer full of that stuff right now. ;)
Yep.
People never need free.
Agree. It just struck me as overly restrictive to discourage cans which aren't pop-tops.
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