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.