Top 5 items to donate this holiday season
(NC) The season of giving is upon us and there is no better way to end 2020 than giving back to your local community.
Before the start of the pandemic, 1.1 million visits were made to food banks across Canada in a typical month. Regularly, low-income households must choose between rent, utilities, childcare, medicine, and food in order to make ends meet. Unfortunately, this has become a reality for many more Canadians in recent months and food banks have been significantly impacted across the country.
“Food banks have been working hard to adapt and continue to provide resources to people in our communities who are struggling with food insecurity. Your donation will have an immediate impact,” explains Chris Hatch, CEO of Food Banks Canada. “We need to continue to work towards our vision of a country where no one goes hungry, especially during these difficult times.”
Not sure what to give? Here are the most-needed items right now:
1. Think warm and hearty meals.
As we enter the deep cold of winter, a warm meal can make all the difference. When choosing items for the food bank, think about your favourite comfort meals and add a few additional items to your grocery cart like dried pasta and sauce, rice, stews, chili and soups.
2. Pack the protein.
Getting enough protein is crucial to good health. While our main sources of protein may come from fresh items such as meats and dairy products, canned meat and fish, peanut butter and canned and dry beans are also excellent sources.
3. Don’t forget the fruits and veggies.
You may not know that canned fruits and vegetables can be just as nutritious and delicious as fresh produce. They’re packed at their peak ripeness to lock in the nutrients – just be sure to look for low- or zero-sodium and sugar-free versions.
4. Personal care is just as important.
Access to personal care items is something we may take for granted, but for some, it could mean the difference between paying the electricity bill this month or putting food on the table. Shampoos, soaps, tampons and pads, as well as lotions and creams are all welcome items for food banks. Baby items such as diapers and wipes are also essential.
5. Making a cash donation is easy.
While our non-perishable food is always put to good use, monetary contributions are also very important to food banks. Cash donations make it possible for them to purchase fresh items such as produce, bread and milk for those in need, as well as fill in any gaps in non-perishables.
Real Canadian Superstore and Loblaws locations across Canada make donating to your local food bank easy. From November 26 to December 24, you can drop off non-perishable goods and donate funds at the register to help ensure that our neighbours have a good holiday season.