Top 11 Items Hudson Valley Food Banks Really Need

As the season of giving arrives, many in the Hudson Valley may want to give to local food banks. The list of the top 11 items that people in need really want, but won’t ask for, may surprise you.

11) Holiday Foods:
Food pantries have very high traffic during the holidays. A holiday treat that a homeless person enjoyed during better times can go a long way. Plus, many of the holiday foods, like cranberry sauce and sweet potatoes, are high in antioxidants that can help fight off colds. It’s recommended you look for low sodium items.

10) 100% Juice Drinks:
Food banks need to have juice stocked up, especially for children. But, juices that aren’t 100% juice are high in fructose corn syrup, which can be harmful to kids with poor nutrition.

9) Low Sodium Vegetables:
Vegetables are needed to keep the homeless healthy. They are a great donation because of the vitamins, fiber and low salt.

8) Canned Meat or Fish:
Protein is often hard to find at food banks. Non-perishable canned chicken, beef, tuna, or salmon can be added to many meals for a much-needed boost in protein.

7) Peanut Butter:
Peanut butter is another high in protein food, which almost everyone loves! Many forgot it can be donated because it doesn’t come in a can.

6) Unsalted Nuts:
Nuts are high in protein and vitamins. Because they cost more than most donated items, they are hard to keep stocked at food banks.

5) Chocolate:
Almost everyone loves chocolate! However, this delicious candy is rarely found at food banks. A former homeless person wrote on Reddit, “getting to enjoy a bit of chocolate or something else I wouldn't dream of buying at the time made my holiday.”

4) Feminine Products:
Many food banks don’t have any, while many homeless woman are always in need of tampons, pads and panty liners. Donating bulk items is recommended.

3) Socks:
Socks are item that you likely didn’t know many homeless people consider a luxury. They tend to get stolen quickly. “They keep you warm, make you feel like you have something new, and just comfort you,” a former homeless person wrote on Reddit.

2) Toiletries:
Many food bank workers wish they had more toiletries like toilet paper, deodorant and toothpaste. Most food stamp programs don’t allow for people to buy non-food items. Baby toiletries like diapers, wipes, formula, shampoo and soap are also in great need.

1) Spices:
Many food pantries have canned food and vegetables, so  the addition of spices can really add flavor to any meal! Pepper, cayenne pepper, salt, garlic, chili powders, cumin and turmeric are some examples that can make any bland dish taste much better.

Note: Make sure anything you donate is unopened.

This list was made by looking at Buzzfeed and Reddit who polled food bank workers and people in need about the items they really need, or wish was donated.