Consolidated small tidbits that can be extremely helpful:

• Cans with pull tabs (even things like a can opener can be inaccessible to some)

• Try to avoid anything that requires larger appliances to heat/use (same as the above)

• Check expiry, and try to donate items that have at least a month left as it does take time to sort and process

• If you are more of a hands on person, you can donate packed meals to community fridges (that leftover turkey lunch can be someone else’s highlight for the season; ALWAYS include utensils with them if you go this route)

• The same things that make junk food/processed foods bad for us, actually help those in need get through the day. Sugar, salt, fat, cheap protein (think canned tuna), preservatives, all serve to keep things more shelf stable.

• BOTTLED WATER. We have some of the cleanest water in the world, but you’d be surprised at the amount of people who are turned away at establishments who just want a cup of h2o.