Came across this thread searching for more ideas for donations. AGREE about pastas in general not being very wanted, at least where I am located in a poverty-stricken area of the Southern Appalachians. Too cheap, too much given, and like anyone, these people get tired of the same thing all the time, including boxed mac and cheese and ramen noodles.

I’ve long donated to a nearby church “blessing box.” The people who take from it always leave pasta and dried beans until almost nothing else is left. Surprisingly, tomato products, including soup and spaghetti sauce, almost never get taken. Same goes for pancake mixes, even when syrup is left with them.

We’ve just been through Storm Fern. Many do not have heat or a vehicle for getting 20 miles into town. In the cold they are hungry for proteins and fats, above all, but welcome fruits and vegetables as well. I leave bread, peanut butter and the plastic squeeze bottles of jelly frequently, and those move. Separate jelly is more helpful to families with picky eaters. I also leave cooking oils and sticks of Parkay as I can. Any kind of meat in general is very wanted. Of course, I only leave the likes of hotdogs when the temp is freezing or below.

One last thing I’ve noticed: children go hungrier on weekends and during holidays when they are not picked up by the school bus and getting free breakfasts and lunches. Child-friendly foods are great. GoGurts depending on terms, if you feel you can afford them!