The Secret Your Local Food Pantry Wants You to Know
- April Wagner
- Jun 27, 2016
- 3 min read
Did you know that food pantries see the demand for food double in June, July and August when school feeding programs are no longer available for local children? I didn't. In an article on CNBC.com from May 2016, they stated that despite an improved economy and lower national jobless rate since the recession, every single county in America is facing hunger, according to a new report. "There is not a single county in the United States, where food insecurity doesn't exist." said Lisa Davis, senior vice president of government relations at Feeding America, the nation's largest domestic hunger relief organization.
So, how can we help? If you're local to the Kalamazoo, MI area, our largest food pantry is Kalamazoo Loaves & Fishes. Nearly 10,500 children struggle with hunger in Kalamazoo. The summer months can be especially difficult since many children no longer have access to free or reduced school lunches. The Food is Fuel campaign aims to stop that by keeping shelves stocked and bellies full. We've chosen to donate a portion of all proceeds in June to them for this reason. So, we have a few more days in June to help support this great cause while getting some beautiful fair trade products and supporting artisans around the world. Just check out www.ubuntugoods.com.
If you're not local to Kalamazoo, MI, you probably have a favorite local food bank that you'd rather support so that the funds go right into your own community. You can host a Facebook/Online party with Ubuntu Goods and we'll donate 15% of all party sales to the local charity of your choice!
Food pantries need funds, but they also need food. So, here are some of the most needed food items at food pantries across America:
1. Canned fish and meats. Canned salmon, tuna, and chicken are high in protein and are basic building block for nutritious meals…think chicken salad, tuna with pasta and peas, etc.
2. Peanut butter/ nut butters. These are great sources of protein, fiber, and healthy fats. They are also convenient to use for sandwiches-making or snacking, making them a great option for the hardworking families we serve.
3. Healthy packaged soups. Look for low-sodium, natural brands of canned soup or stew. A few cans of stew make a healthy, complete meal for families with limited resources.
4. Whole- or multi-grain breakfast cereals. You can help kids in need start their day right by donating tasty but healthy cereals- oatmeal is a great option too! Nutrient-rich whole grains provide fiber and keep little tummies full.
5. Canned or dried beans. These are another great source of protein and fiber, and can be used in a wide variety of ways.
6. Pasta sauce. Marinara sauce can be combined with a package of dry pasta or canned meat & veggies for a quick, healthy meal.
7. Shelf-stable milk. owdered milk (dry), boxed milk, or even canned evaporated skim milk provide much-needed calcium and protein and replace other less-healthy beverage choices.
8. Whole-grain pasta. Pasta is a versatile family favorite that stretches to feed a lot of bellies- and the whole-grain variety packs a great nutritional punch!
9. Rice and other grains. Quinoa, barley, wild or brown rice, and other nutrient-rich grains provide fiber, protein and important vitamins. They’re also easy to cook alongside beans for a satisfying, balanced meal.
10. Canned vegetables. Though they don’t taste exactly like fresh, canned veggies are an important source of nutrition when fresh veggies and fruits are not available. Look for low-sodium vegetables and low-sugar fruits.
There are so many ways to help our local community. What are some of your favorite ways?
From My Heart to Yours,
April
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