Best Items To Donate To The Ottawa Food Bank

By Mary Fournier

Have you been listening for our $1,000 Song? All you have to do is listen daily for Ed Sheeran and Justin Beiber’s ‘I Don’t Care’ to play in its entirety and be lucky caller 106 to instantly win!

We’re also happy to announce that every time we play the $1,000 Song and someone wins the $1,000, we will also be donating $200 dollars to the Ottawa Food Bank to help support efforts surrounding COVID-19.

In regards to the Ottawa Food Bank, we’re making a list of some of the best and not usually thought of items you can donate.

1. Baby Diapers

Last year, the Ottawa Food Bank spent $89,300 on diapers alone. Over a third of their clients are children and babies and diapers are a necessary and essential item to meet the needs of new families.

2. Feminine Hygiene Products

Donating pads, tampons and panty liners are a necessity for women with a limited income as it involves a tough decision when it comes to staying healthy and clean during their period or affording food and other monthly expenses. In 2018, women and girls made up 49% of people who access the food bank, which equals to 430,000 individuals who not only need access to food but also feminine hygiene products.

3. Milk Alternatives

Soy milk, almond milk, coconut milk, cashew milk and oat milk (among plenty other types of milk alternatives) are in high demand at food banks. Not just for those who are allergic to dairy products or dietary restrictions, but they also have a longer shelf life compared to dairy milk and contain a variety of nutrients.

4. Spices

With all the non-perishable food being donated, they sometimes are bland and don’t have that much flavour. Salt and pepper are always a basic essential, but when you donate your canned goods, think of spices that can pair well with meals being made with your items.

5. Toothpaste/Mouthwash

Families who use food banks that may not have enough of an income for food and other expenses may do without toothpaste and mouthwash which can affect their and their children’s oral health. By donating toothpaste, mouthwash or toothbrushes, it protects the dental health and overall well-being of families.

You can also donate money to the Ottawa Food Bank by clicking here.