Any donation is welcome, but there are certain items that are more in demand than other. Here's a look at four types of donations you should request during your food drive.
Low Sodium and Sugar Non-Perishables
As part of an initiative by Feeding America called Foods to Encourage, many food banks are working to provide more healthful options. This is characterized by a number nutritional values, but two that you can keep an eye on are sodium and sugar -- think low sodium canned vegetables and low sugar cereals and canned fruits.
Toiletries
Many food pantries provide necessary sundries such as toilet paper, tooth paste, tampons, shampoo, paper towels, band aids, and so on. Don’t forget these items the next time you host or donate to a food drive!
Refrigerators/Freezers
Though food drives generally collect non-perishable goods, many pantries try to offer fresh produce, meat, and other perishable goods; however, fridge or freezer space can be a constraint, as pantries generally don’t have access to industrial sized refrigerators or an adequate amount of regular refrigeration. The next time you decide to get new appliances or ditch the deep-freeze you never use, consider contacting your local food bank to see if there are pantries looking for more storage space.
Money
Last but far from least, money goes a long way for food pantries. Oftentimes, food pantries and food banks have partnerships that allow every dollar donated to stretch further. So instead of buying items to donate to a food drive, make a monetary donation that will give them more bang for your buck.
Looking for more food drive tips? We've got them!
