Food Drive Suggestions

Proteins (Canned or Shelf-Stable):

• Canned tuna, salmon, chicken, turkey
• Canned beans (black, pinto, kidney, navy, etc.)
• Baked beans or chili with beans
• Peanut butter, almond butter
• Shelf-stable protein shakes or meal replacements
• Shelf-stable tofu
• Powdered eggs
• Canned stews with meat and vegetables
• Canned split pea or lentil soup (low sodium)

Grains, Pasta, and Rice:

• White, brown, or jasmine rice
• Pasta (spaghetti, penne, macaroni, etc.)
• Gluten-free pasta
• Couscous, bulgur, or farro
• Quinoa or hemp hearts
• Instant noodles or ramen (low sodium)
• Rice mixes (pilaf, jambalaya, or fried rice kits)
• Flour (all-purpose, whole wheat, almond, gluten-free)
• Cornmeal or masa harina
• Tortillas (flour or corn, shelf-stable)

Breakfast Items:

• Whole grain cereals
• Oatmeal
• Granola or muesli
• Pancake mix (add water variety preferred)
• Shelf-stable breakfast bars or protein bars

Canned Fruits and Vegetables:

• Canned vegetables (corn, peas, green beans, carrots, etc.)
• Canned potatoes or sweet potatoes
• Canned tomatoes (diced, crushed, stewed, paste, sauce)
• Mixed vegetable medleys
• Canned fruit (pineapple, peaches, mandarin oranges) in juice or water
• Applesauce (individual cups or jars, unsweetened preferred)
• Dried fruit (raisins, apricots, cranberries, bananas)

Soups and Broths:

• Canned soups (vegetable, chicken noodle, tomato, etc.)
• Chunky soups or stews with meat and vegetables
• Canned broth (chicken, beef, or vegetable)
• Bouillon cubes or powdered stock
• Instant soups or cup noodles

Dairy and Dairy Substitutes:

• Shelf-stable milk (dairy, almond, soy, coconut, oat)
• Powdered milk or evaporated milk

Cooking and Baking Essentials:

• Cooking oils (olive, avocado or coconut)
• Spices (salt, pepper, garlic powder, cinnamon, paprika, etc.)

Snacks and Treats:

• Apples
• Trail mix or mixed nuts
• Popcorn (microwaveable)
• Pretzels or crackers (whole grain, low sodium)
• Cookies or biscotti
• Granola bars or fruit bars
• Chips (potato, tortilla, or veggie chips)
• Packaged chocolate or candy

Convenience Foods:

• Boxed mac and cheese
• Canned spaghetti or ravioli
• Shelf-stable meals (like Hormel Compleats)
• Instant mashed potatoes
• Boxed meal kits (Hamburger Helper, Rice-A-Roni, etc.)
• Canned curry or ethnic food options (beans in sauce, chickpea curry)

Specialty Items for Diverse Needs:

• Gluten-free pasta, cereal, or baking mixes
• Low-sodium canned goods or soups
• Diabetic-friendly items (low-sugar snacks, unsweetened canned fruits)
• High-protein or meal replacement shakes for seniors
• Baby formula (infant or toddler-specific)
• Baby food jars, pouches, or cereals

Beverages:

• Bottled water (individual or gallon-sized)
• 100% fruit juice boxes or bottles
• Shelf-stable coffee creamer
• Instant coffee or tea bags

Miscellaneous Useful Items:

• Canned gravies or sauces
• Salsa
• Jam, jelly, or preserves (plastic jars preferred)
• Condiments (mustard, ketchup, mayonnaise, shelf-stable)

Baby Food ( all)

What to Avoid:

• Expired or perishable items
• Glass containers (can break easily)
• Homemade or opened items
• Alcoholic beverages
• Large bulk items without proper portioning

This comprehensive list covers a wide range of nutritious and accessible food options to meet the needs of a diverse community. Always check with your local food drive or pantry to confirm their preferences.