Ending Holiday Hunger: 5 Ways to Maximize Your Food Donations

During the holidays, we tend to think more about people in need. That’s why food banks see
skyrocketing donations between Thanksgiving and Christmas and nonprofits get a boost in
volunteers. But while all charity is commendable, it doesn’t all have the same impact. With a
little planning, you can ensure your contribution does the most possible good. Here are five tips
from Nashville’s leaders in the fight against hunger.

1. Connect With the Pros: If you’re new to this work, then don’t go it alone. Consider
   volunteering with organizations like Second Harvest Food Bank, The Nashville Food Project, or
   the HERO program in Metro Nashville Public Schools. They’re always looking for help, and they
   know how to get food to the people who need it most.
   
2. Embrace Canned Goods: When you donate food, remember that safety regulations control
   what food banks can distribute. Troy Edwards, COO at Second Harvest, says, “Frozen foods
   are tricky because they have to be maintained at such specific temperatures. But canned goods
   are wonderful and dry goods are fantastic.”
   
3. Consider What Recipients Need: When an organization asks for less flashy donations,
   there’s always a reason. For instance, restaurant gift cards may not conjure holiday fantasies,
   but they’re often the most practical options for families living in motels without access to
   kitchens. “It’s important to remember what people’s circumstances are,” says Catherine
   Knowles, director of special population services for Metro schools. “If a family can’t prepare a
   Thanksgiving turkey, then delivering an elaborate meal doesn’t help them.”
   
4. Join a Street Team: It’s hard to top the power of human interaction. Lindsey Smith, the
   community connections manager at People Loving Nashville, coordinates volunteers every
   week to deliver meals to hungry Nashvillians. She says, “I encourage everyone to deliver food,
   because I see people get affected by meeting someone who’s living on the street. It breaks
   down that us-them barrier.”
   
5. Don’t Despair: The city’s food insecurity problem can feel disheartening, and while it’s true
   that donating food or delivering meals won’t fix the system, it can still make a difference. As
   Smith says, “I try to remember that we’re reaching out to people who often feel like no one cares
   about them. That does have an impact, one person at a time.”