Food bank use is on the rise. The Hunger Count 2004 report from the Canadian Association of Food Banks reveals some shocking facts about food bank use in Canada.

• Almost 40% of food bank users are children
• Over 13% of food bank users have jobs
• There has been an 8.5% increase in food bank use since 2003

In Leeds, Grenville, and Lanark counties, over 10% of households worry about not having enough to eat due to lack of money.

There are many challenges related to the food on hand at food banks. Lack of variety, short time to expiry date, lack of storage for perishable items, and low nutrient content all limit the variety of food available to food bank users. By the time someone seeks assistance at the food bank, the quality and quantity of their food intake as well as their health have likely already suffered.

Items most needed at food banks

Foods in short supply at local food banks include: school lunch items, canned fruit & vegetables, canned beans, canned soup, low sugar breakfast cereals, and baby items (food, diapers).

When choosing items to donate to the food bank, include nutritious choices that fit with Canada’s Food Guide to Healthy Eating. Local food banks have told us that they often need the following items:

• Grain Products – whole grain bread, brown rice, whole wheat crackers, bagels, hot & cold cereals, granola bars, muffins
• Vegetables & Fruit – canned fruit and vegetables, 100% fruit juice, tomato sauce, canned soup, tomato juice, applesauce, fresh (if storage available)
• Milk Products – dry milk powder, milk puddings, cheese spreads, fresh milk, yogurt, & cheese (if accepted)
• Meat & Alternatives – canned meat & fish, peanut butter, canned baked beans, dried or canned beans and lentils

Other items that may be needed at food banks include household cleaners, shampoo, soap, deodorant, toothpaste & toothbrushes, baking supplies, and feminine hygiene products

Target your food bank donations

Meal kit – fill a shoe box with all items needed for a complete meal – for example, tomato sauce, tomato paste, kidney beans, canned mushrooms, canned corn, and chili powder can make great chili. A recipe would be fun to include!

School lunches & snacks – pudding cups, peanut-free granola bars, fruit cups, cereal bars, 100% juice boxes, yogurt cups

Plant-a-row in your garden! - Plant an extra row of your favourite vegetables, and give the extra harvest to the food bank. If you have left over produce in your freezer from last year, check with your local food bank to see if they have need for that as well..

Always check with your local food bank before donating perishable foods such as fresh and frozen fruits & vegetables, meat, and milk. Find our what your local food bank needs and make that your starting point.

For more information local food bank locations, contact the Leeds, Grenville, and Lanark District Health Unit’s toll free Health Action line at 1-800-660-5853 or 613-345-5685 and ask to speak to a Registered Dietitian.

Dianne Oickle, MSc, RD Registered Dietitian/Public Health Nutritionist

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