What to Donate - Food Drives

General Guidelines

All items should be unopened and in their original packaging
Check expiration dates—items should not be expired
Non-perishable items are preferred, but many food banks also accept fresh produce
When in doubt, contact your local food bank to confirm what they accept

Most Needed Food Items

🥫

Canned Vegetables

Canned vegetables like corn, green beans, peas, carrots, and tomatoes are highly nutritious and have long shelf lives. They provide essential vitamins and minerals to families in need.

Examples: Canned corn, green beans, peas, carrots, tomatoes, mixed vegetables

🥫

Canned Fruits

Canned fruits in water or light syrup offer natural sweetness and important nutrients. They're especially popular with children and provide a healthy snack option.

Examples: Canned peaches, pears, pineapple, mandarin oranges, mixed fruit

🍝

Pasta & Rice

Staple carbohydrates like pasta, rice, and noodles are filling and versatile. They form the foundation of many meals and are always in high demand.

Examples: Spaghetti, macaroni, rice (white or brown), noodles, pasta sauce

🥣

Cereal & Breakfast Items

Breakfast is the most important meal of the day. Cereal, oatmeal, and breakfast bars help ensure children and adults start their day with proper nutrition.

Examples: Whole grain cereal, oatmeal, granola bars, breakfast bars

🥫

Canned Proteins

Protein is essential for growth and health. Canned meats, fish, and beans provide affordable protein sources that don't require refrigeration.

Examples: Canned tuna, chicken, salmon, beans (black, kidney, pinto), lentils

🥫

Soups & Stews

Ready-to-eat soups and stews are convenient, nutritious, and comforting. They're especially valuable during colder months and for individuals with limited cooking facilities.

Examples: Chicken noodle soup, vegetable soup, beef stew, chili

🥜

Peanut Butter & Nut Butters

Peanut butter is a protein-rich, shelf-stable food that's beloved by children and adults alike. It's versatile and provides essential nutrients.

Examples: Peanut butter, almond butter, other nut butters (check for allergies)

🥛

Dried & Shelf-Stable Milk

Milk provides calcium and vitamin D essential for bone health. Shelf-stable or powdered milk options ensure families can access this important nutrient.

Examples: Powdered milk, shelf-stable milk boxes, evaporated milk

🍯

Cooking Essentials

Basic cooking ingredients help families prepare meals from scratch. These items are often overlooked but are essential for meal preparation.

Examples: Cooking oil, flour, sugar, salt, spices, condiments

🍎

Fresh Produce

Many food banks accept fresh fruits and vegetables. These items provide essential vitamins and fiber, though they should be donated when fresh and in good condition.

Examples: Apples, oranges, potatoes, onions, carrots, leafy greens (check with food bank first)

🍪

Snacks & Treats

While not essential, snacks and treats bring joy and normalcy to families, especially children. These items help make food assistance feel less like charity and more like normal grocery shopping.

Examples: Crackers, cookies, granola bars, fruit snacks (in moderation)

👶

Baby Food & Formula

Infant nutrition is critical. Baby food, formula, and baby cereal are always in high demand and help ensure the youngest members of our community receive proper nutrition.

Examples: Baby formula, baby food jars, baby cereal, teething biscuits

Items to Avoid

For safety and health reasons, please do not donate:

Expired or opened food items
Homemade or prepared foods (unless specifically accepted by the food bank)
Damaged or dented cans (especially if severely dented or bulging)
Items that require refrigeration (unless the food bank has proper storage)
Alcoholic beverages
Items in glass containers (unless specifically requested, as they can break)

Ready to Donate?

Now that you know what to donate, find a food drive or food bank near you to make your contribution.

Find a Location Near You