10 Things Food Banks Need But Won’t Ask For

Holiday time is the time to think of people in need, and food banks help those who are food insecure in our community. More than ever, people who have jobs use food pantries as a stop gap measure to keep their families fed.

We've all pitched in some canned goods to help out with a food drive, but what are some items that people who frequent these facilities really need that they rarely ask for?

A survey on Reddit.com asked volunteers what items people who use local food pantries would be most appreciative of and here are the top 10 responses.

If you’re looking to make an impact beyond just chucking a few cans into a bin, here are some things that would make a huge difference in the lives of the working poor and the homeless who frequent area food pantries. 

1. Spices.

Think about it. People who rely on the food bank eat a lot of canned food, rice, oatmeal, white bread, etc. They love spices. Seasoned salt, cayenne pepper, chili powder, cumin, cinnamon, nutmeg, allspice, oregano, basil and so on.

2. Feminine Products.

Can you imagine being worried about affording these? Pads, tampons, panty liners, etc. Recommended: Buy in bulk at Costco for donating.

3. Chocolate.

People don’t need it, but think about being in their shoes and how nice it would be to be given a chocolate bar or brownie mix along with your essentials.

4. Toiletries.

Grocery stores are great about donating surplus or unsold food, but they have no reason to donate toilet paper, tooth paste, soap, deodorant, shampoo, etc. Food stamps often don’t cover these.

5. Canned meats and jerky.

This isn’t true of all food banks, but some struggle to give users enough protein.

6. Crackers and tortillas.

They don’t spoil and everybody likes them.

7. Baby toiletries.

Diapers, baby wipes, baby formula, baby shampoo, baby soap, baby food, bottles, etc.

8. Soup packets.

Sometimes you look at rice, beans, instant potatoes, and cans of vegetable and think, “What do I make with this?” Hearty soup is a complete meal.

9. Socks.

From a former homeless person: “Socks mean the world to you. They keep you warm, make you feel like you have something new, and just comfort you.”

10. Canned fruit other than pineapple.

Food banks get a lot of pineapple donated. Their clients love it when other kinds of fruit are available.

And remember! Food banks love cash donations because it allows them to buy whatever they need!

Below are some links to local food providers and pantries, they can always use some help during the Holiday season, and year round.