10/02/21.
The following article was found online and submitted to us by Sara Huntz. It is very appropriate for this time of year because a lot of people donate to food banks during the holidays. Please read carefully and take into consideration as you purchase your donations this holiday season.
“So, I spent some time at a Food Bank today, and spoke to the people getting food. Here are some things I learned from those in need:
- Everyone donates Kraft Mac and Cheese in the box. They can rarely use it because it needs milk and butter which is hard to get from regular food banks. Donate these items or try Velveeta Shells and Cheese instead.
- Boxed milk is a treasure, as kids need it for cereal which they also get a lot of.
- Everyone donates pasta sauce and spaghetti noodles.
- They cannot eat all the awesome canned veggies and soup unless you put a can opener in too or buy pop tops.
- Oil is a luxury but needed for Rice a Roni which they also get a lot of.
- Spices or salt and pepper would be a real Christmas gift.
- Tea bags and coffee make them feel like you care.
- Sugar and flour are treats.
- They fawn over fresh produce donated by farmers and grocery stores.
- Seeds are cool in spring and summer because growing can be easy for some.
- They rarely get fresh meat.
- Tuna and crackers make a good lunch.
- Hamburger Helper goes nowhere without ground beef.
- They get lots of peanut butter and jelly but usually not sandwich bread.
- Butter or margarine is nice too.
- Eggs are a commodity.
- Cake mixes and frosting make it possible to make a child’s birthday cake.
- Dishwashing detergent is very expensive and is always appreciated.
- Feminine hygiene products are a luxury and women will cry over that.
- Everyone loves Stove Top Stuffing.
In all the years I have donated food at the holidays, I bought what I thought they wanted, but never asked. I am glad I did. If you are helping a family this Christmas, maybe this can help you tailor it more. It does me!”