HOW YOU CAN MAKE YOUR DONATIONS GO FURTHER AT THE FOOD PANTRY
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Donating foods to a food pantry is a noble cause, but often, these organizations receive items that are spoiled, damaged, or lacking in essential nutrients. If your holiday plans involve donating to those experiencing food insecurity, here are some of the most requested goods that help to provide both nourishment and a sense of dignity to the individuals and families who visit.
Tip: Add these items to your next Thrive Market order, ship it straight to your door, and you’ll have everything you need to make a drop-off.
6. Coffee While coffee may not seem essential in a nutritional sense, it’s a meaningful comfort item that helps to provide dignity and routine during uncertain times. Donate economy-sized containers of coffee that last longer than smaller bags. 7. Canned Meat & Seafood Protein is often one of the most difficult foods for food- insecure individuals to access, so shelf-stable cans are extremely valuable for creating balanced meals. Donate a variety of canned proteins, such as tuna, chicken, and salmon. 8. Canned Fruits & Vegetables These provide essential vitamins and minerals, even when fresh produce isn’t accessible. Look for fruit packed in juice (not syrup) and low- sodium vegetables. 9. Rice Rice is inexpensive, shelf-stable, and pairs easily with beans, vegetables, or canned proteins, making it one of the most versatile donations. Donate both white and brown rice so that individuals can choose their preference. 10. Pet Food Donating dog and cat food helps ensure that beloved pets are cared for without taking away from a family’s limited grocery budget. Donate protein-first dog and cat foods when possible.
1. Nut Butters Shelf-stable, nutritionally dense items like nut butters are always needed at food pantries. Consider donating almond, peanut, or cashew butters without extra sugars. 2. Baby Formula Baby formula is one of the most urgently needed items in a food pantry: It’s expensive and essential for many families with infants, but also tightly regulated, so families can’t easily substitute for another product like regular cow’s milk. Donate a few different brands and types to reach as many families as possible. 3. Pasta & Pasta Sauce Dried pastas and canned or jarred sauces make filling, easy dinners that can be customized with whatever a family has on hand. Look for pastas made with whole wheat for added fiber, or chickpea flour for extra protein. 4. Spices Spices help families make meals tastier and more enjoyable, and that’s especially important during times of food insecurity. Donate a variety of multipurpose spices and spice blends, like salt, pepper, garlic powder, and taco seasoning. 5. Flour You may not think to donate pantry staples, but flour offers flexibility for cooking, baking, and making nutritious meals at home. Whole-grain or unbleached options can also provide extra fiber and nutrients.
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