What food pantries actually want you to donate this holiday season

The holiday season is a time for giving, and many people seek ways to support their local food pantries. While canned goods and non-perishable foods are always welcome, pantries often have additional needs to support families facing financial struggles. Understanding what items are most helpful can ensure your donations make the greatest impact during this season of giving. Use this list the next time you go grocery shopping and consider throwing a few extra items in to donate to a food pantry near you!

Shelf-stable goods

Canned beans, chicken, fish, soups, chili, and sauces with pop tops, when possible- not everyone has a can opener!

Pantry essentials like olive oil, salt, pepper, and dried herbs and spices

Pre-cooked pasta and rice

Grains like quinoa, oatmeal, brown and white rice, and pasta

Dried beans, lentils, and chickpeas

Instant noodles and soup packets

Shelf-stable and evaporated milk, tea, and coffee

Nuts, nut butters, cereal, protein bars, and granola

Baking mixes such as muffins and pancakes

Loaves of bread

Baby formula

Holiday staples (and treats)

Turkey breasts, small turkeys, and hams

Seasonal vegetables, such as brussels sprouts and potatoes

Cranberry sauce

Boxes of stuffing

Broth

Rolled oats

Vegan entrees

Dessert ingredients (pie crust, condensed milk, canned pumpkin, apple, cinnamon, flour, sugar, butter, and more)

Advent calendars

Fresh food

Fruits and vegetables, such as potatoes, peppers, carrots, and avocados

Meats and deli slices, particularly chicken

Fresh herbs (like cilantro, parsley, and basil)

Eggs and cheese

Ready-to-make salads

Lemons and limes

Culturally appropriate and dietary-specific foods

Kosher staples

Halal meats

Gluten, soy, nut, and dairy-free staples (such as pastas and alternative milks)

Vegan and vegetarian options (such as imitation meats and tofu)

Cooking tools and cleaning products

Pots and pans

Spatulas, ladles, and wooden spoons

Oven mitts

Blenders and food processors

Can openers

Paper towels, napkins, and trash bags

Dishwashing soap and surface cleaners

Dishcloths and sponges

Personal care items

Shampoo and conditioner (travel-size or full-size)

Soap or body wash

Lotion or moisturizer

Deodorant (for men and women)

Razors and shaving cream

Toothpaste and toothbrushes

Laundry detergent (pods or small bottles)

Feminine hygiene products (pads and tampons)

Diapers and baby wipes

Toilet paper

School Supplies

Backpacks

Notebooks (spiral-bound or composition)

Loose-leaf paper

Folders with pockets

Binders (1", 2", or 3")

Index cards

Pens (blue, black, red)

Pencils (#2 and mechanical)

Highlighters

Markers (washable and permanent)

Crayons

Colored pencils

Scissors

Glue sticks and bottles of glue

Calculators (basic or scientific)

Headphones or earbuds

Hand sanitizer

Money

Food pantries' needs change throughout the year, so be sure to call ahead and ask if you’re unsure what to donate. If you are short on time or all of your decision-making is already spent, your dollars help them purchase exactly what their communities are asking for.

This holiday season, your thoughtful donations can bring hope and relief to families in need. By choosing items that food pantries request most, you help ensure their shelves are stocked with essentials that make a difference. Whether it’s food, personal care items, or small gifts for children, every contribution brings joy and comfort to someone in your community.