With significant SNAP benefit reductions set to take effect on November 1st, food banks across the country are anticipating a massive surge in demand. Many food bank directors have stated plainly that they cannot possibly make up for the support SNAP provides to over 42 million Americans. In fact, many food banks already struggle to meet the needs of those not covered by SNAP.
What You Can Do To Help
While donating money is the single most effective way to help (food banks leverage fantastic bulk purchasing power), many people prefer to drop off physical goods. We have frequently donated to a local college food bank program, and these are the items that were most appreciated by students and area staff that need a little extra assistance.
If you are inclined to donate food and sundry items, here is a direct look at what truly makes the biggest difference to families in need:
Food & Kitchen Staples
| Priority | Item | Why It’s Needed |
| HIGH | Shelf-Stable Milk | Crucial for kids’ cereal; liquid milk/butter for boxed mac is hard to get. |
| HIGH | Sandwich Bread | To go with the large amounts of donated PB&J. |
| HIGH | Can Openers / Pop-Top Cans | Canned goods cannot be eaten without an opener. |
| HIGH | Oil (Cooking Oil) | A necessary “luxury” for preparing common staples like Rice-a-Roni. |
| HIGH | Spices, Salt & Pepper | Adds flavor to basic meals; a rare and treasured gift. |
| HIGH | Fresh Produce | Highly valued but rarely seen (from farmers/stores). |
| HIGH | Fresh Meat & Eggs | A rare source of protein. (Call to make sure fresh products can be dropped off) |
| HIGH | Tuna & Crackers | Makes a fast, easy, and complete lunch. |
| HIGH | Stove Top Stuffing | Always a popular, easy-to-prepare favorite. |
| MED | Butter or Margarine | A welcome addition to meals. |
| MED | Sugar & Flour | Treat items that allow for home baking. |
| MED | Tea Bags & Coffee | A small comfort that shows you care. |
| LOW | Cake Mix & Frosting | Allows families to make a child’s birthday cake. |
| AVOID | Hamburger Helper Alone | Needs ground beef, which is often missing. (Call to make sure fresh products can be dropped off) |
| AVOID | Kraft Mac & Cheese Alone | Needs milk and butter, which are often missing. |
Hygiene & Home Essentials
| Priority | Item | Why It’s Needed |
| CRITICAL | Feminine Hygiene Products | A desperate luxury that women will appreciate greatly. |
| CRITICAL | Dishwashing & Laundry Detergent | Very expensive and always in high demand. |
