What food banks actually need
Photo: iStockphoto
If you want to donate goods to a local shelter or food bank this time of year, remember that it’s always best to check with the agency to see what it needs. (Many have wish lists on their websites.) You don?t want to burden them with goods that take up space and aren?t a good fit. ?Many charities are overwhelmed with dropped-off junk,? says Kate Bahen, managing director of Charity Intelligence Canada, a Toronto-based charity that produces research reports on the effectiveness of more than 700 organizations. ?Make sure your giving always comes with dignity, and remember the person on the receiving line.? Some of the items that no longer spark joy in you, as you?re doing a Marie Kondo?inspired de-clutter, might not be useful to shelter clients, either. (And some can actively hurt others?for instance, a crib that?s been recalled, or a can of infant formula could cause harm if it?s donated to someone who doesn?t have access to clean water or a safe place to prepare a bottle.) Remember that many food bank clients struggle with health issues like diabetes, and high-fibre, low-sugar, whole-grain fresh foods are better than high-sodium or processed foods, whenever possible. Here’s a general list of items that most food banks actually need:
Healthy cereals and oatmeal
Bags of potatoes or apples
Kids? snack items (juice boxes, individual applesauces, etc.)
Toilet paper
Diapers and wipes
Jars and pouches of baby food
Personal hygiene products, like s...
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