Brendon Pack Describes How to Maximize Your Impact and Help Fight Hunger Effectively
Food banks are vital lifelines for individuals and families facing food insecurity. They rely heavily on the generosity of donors to stock shelves with nutritious, accessible items.
However, not all donations are equally helpful.
To truly make a difference, it’s essential to know what food banks need most—and what they often can’t use.
I recently talked about impactful ways to volunteer at homeless shelters. But this guide will walk you through the dos and don’ts of food bank donations, with practical tips to ensure your contribution has the greatest possible impact.
Why Thoughtful Donations Matter
Food banks often operate with limited storage, refrigeration, and sorting resources.
Donating expired, perishable, or inappropriate items can create extra work and even waste precious volunteer hours. By donating smartly, you’re not just giving food—you’re giving dignity, nutrition, and hope.
What to Give: High-Impact Donation Items
Here are categories of items that food banks typically need and appreciate:
1. Shelf-Stable Proteins
Canned protein items are a cornerstone of a nutritious diet but are often in short supply at food banks.
Examples:
- Canned tuna, salmon, or chicken
- Canned beans (black beans, garbanzo, pinto)
- Peanut butter (preferably low sugar, natural)
- Dry lentils or split peas
2. Healthy Grains
Whole grains are a better choice than refined “good” carbohydrates for long-term nourishment.
Examples:
- Brown rice, quinoa
- Whole grain pasta
- Oats and rolled oats
- Low-sugar cereals
3. Canned Fruits and Vegetables
Look for options with no added sugar or salt.
Examples:
- Canned tomatoes
- Mixed vegetables
- Applesauce (unsweetened)
- Canned peaches or pineapple in juice
4. Cooking Staples
These help families prepare meals from scratch, which can stretch their food budget.
Examples:
- Cooking oil (vegetable, olive, canola)
- Flour, cornmeal, baking mixes
- Spices and herbs
- Shelf-stable milk or powdered milk
5. Kid-Friendly Items
Children make up a large portion of food bank clients.
Examples:
- Fruit cups or raisins
- Granola bars
- Mac & cheese boxes
- Nut-free snack packs
6. Hygiene and Household Products
Not technically food, but still desperately needed and rarely donated.
Examples:
- Toilet paper, feminine hygiene products
- Toothpaste, soap, shampoo
- Laundry detergent, dish soap
- Diapers and baby wipes
What Not to Give: Common Donation Mistakes
Avoid donating these items—even if well-intentioned:
1. Expired or Opened Items
Even if it’s “just a few days past,” most food banks legally can’t distribute expired items. Opened or damaged packaging also poses a health risk.
2. Homemade Food or Leftovers
Due to food safety regulations, food banks cannot accept homemade meals or baked goods.
3. Perishable Foods
Fresh produce, meat, dairy, and refrigerated items typically require cold storage, which many food banks lack.
4. Alcohol or Supplements
This includes items like wine, protein powders, or vitamins. These are inappropriate or not useful for most recipients.
5. Exotic or Hard-to-Prepare Foods
Unusual items like canned escargot or truffle oil may seem like treats but won’t be practical for recipients who lack resources or familiarity with such foods.
Pro Tip: Donate in Bulk or Themed Kits
If you want to go the extra mile:
- Create meal kits (e.g., pasta + sauce + canned veggies)
- Group hygiene supplies in “clean kits”
- Buy in bulk from warehouse stores for high-impact giving
Consider Monetary Donations
Don’t have time to shop? Food banks can often buy food at wholesale prices, making your dollar go 5 to 10 times farther. A $10 donation can feed a family for days.
Final Thought
Whether you’re cleaning out your pantry or planning a large food drive, donate with intention. Thoughtful donations ensure that your generosity becomes real support—on the table, in the hands of someone who needs it most.
Together, we can make every can count.
