We’ll never turn down donations of shelf-stable food. But food donations aren’t always the best way to help families in need. Here’s why:

A food bank can turn a donated dollar into more meals 

Rather than paying retail prices, we work with major manufacturers, retailers, and farmers to secure food at low bulk prices. With $1, you can maybe buy one box of macaroni-and-cheese. With $1, we can provide dinner for a family of four.

Donations build healthier communities 

Canned goods and dry food like pasta and rice are a vital part of hunger relief. However, feeding people is also about health. Fresh fruit, vegetables, dairy, and lean proteins often can’t be directly donated through food drives for food safety reasons. But we must purchase them because they are vital for healthy lives. 

We use funds to combat food waste 

More than 72 billion pounds of perfectly good food is wasted every year in this country. By working directly with farmers, we help ensure that healthy fruits and vegetables that don’t make it to the grocery store land on the plates of families in need (instead of a landfill).

Still want to donate food to Second Harvest? We’re grateful for you! Click here to learn how.