Donating to food banks is a great way to help the less fortunate. To ensure you donate those food items that will do the most good, the following information can be exceedingly helpful.
Non-Perishable Proteins Are Extremely Valuable
Protein is an essential nutrient that can be hard to come by for those lacking the proper financial resources. For this reason, non-perishable proteins are highly valued at food banks all over the country.
In general, food banks like to stock up on things like canned tuna and beans, as well as peanut and other protein-rich butters. These items can last a long time before going bad, which means food banks can create a surplus to meet ongoing need.
Items Geared Towards Infants Are Always Welcomed
Taking care of a baby can be expensive, especially when it comes to things like diapers and formula. In this respect, food banks welcome those vital infant care items that struggling families may be unable to afford.
While contending with poverty can be scary for anyone, dealing with food insecurity while rearing an infant is even more so. Donating infant-friendly items will provide a real sense of relief for families with a little one in the household.
Don’t Forget the Condiments
Though nutrition is a must when making donations, other items can contribute to one’s enjoyment of food. To this end, donating condiments along with other foods is highly recommended.
Condiments can turn an otherwise bland meal into something incredibly tasty, which affords struggling families bit of enjoyment. As most parents know, getting your kids to eat healthy can sometimes take a bit of work, which condiments can make possible.
Some Items Should Be Left At Home
Additionally, there are a few items that should be left at home when making donations. These include the following:
- Anything Opened or Expired – Not only can foodstuffs past their expiration date not taste as good, they can also pose a health hazard in some cases. Donating items that are already opened can have an impact on freshness, so it’s best to leave these at home.
- Alcoholic Beverages – While it may be tempting to offer your local food bank alcoholic beverages, it’s far more important to donate those items that offer nutritional value.
- Mixes for Cakes and Other Baked Goods – Mixes for cakes and other baked goods may seem like a good idea, but these products often go unused at food banks because they typically require other ingredients which may be scarce in some homes.
Help Those Who Need It Most
In addition to these recommendations, it also helps to contact your local food bank directly to determine if there is anything they need urgently. Doing so will provide you the opportunity to help those who need it most, and feel good about yourself in the process.
