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The Best Foods You Can Donate to a Food Bank

On February 6, 2020

Throughout the United States, one in seven people struggle with not getting enough food. Many people rely on food banks to get the food they need to feed their families. Anyone can donate to a local food bank, but what donations help the most? Below you will find the best foods to donate to food banks.

Protein Sources That Are Shelf-Table

Protein is an important part of anyone’s diet. Protein helps build and repair tissue, as well as become an important building block for bones, muscles, and skin. Try finding canned protein items like fish or chicken. You will also want to donate vegetarian protein sources such as beans and peanut butter. For someone who can’t eat meat, these substitutions can create a filling meal.

Food Bank Donation Suggestions:

Canned fish like tuna or salmon
Canned chicken
Canned beans
Canned soups
Nuts
Trail Mix

Pantry Staples

Look for shelf-stable foods that can be flavored a variety if ways and incorporated into multiple recipes. For example, canned cream of chicken soup can be used in all sorts of recipes like casseroles, chicken pot pie, chili, etc.

Food Bank Donation Suggestions:

Rice
Pasta
Tomato sauce
Canned vegetables
Cooking oils
Flour

What You Should Avoid Donating

While any donations are helpful, there are a few things that you will want to avoid donating. Probably the most obvious thing you should avoid donating is perishable food. The majority of your food should have a longer shelf life, and not go bad after only a few days. Besides nonperishable foods, you should also avoid donating junk food and any canned food that is damaged, unlabeled, or home made.

Junk Food and Soda

Food that is both shelf-stable and nutritious, is something that people struggle with getting the most. You might think your donation of treats, candy, or chips is adding some variety to the food bank, but in reality, food banks receive a lot more junk food than what they actually need. While everyone likes junk food and snacks, this kind of food is difficult to cook healthy and filling meals with.

Canned Food That is Damaged, Unlabeled, or Homemade

Canned food that is dented or has a rusty can, can be dangerous to consume. Dented cans can cause leaks which will compromise canned food which in turn can cause food poisoning. You will also want to leave any unlabeled or homemade items at home.

If you have any questions of what you can’t donate, feel free to call your local food bank.

How You Can Help the Homeless in the Winter

By Jerry Swon

On January 10, 2020

In Community, Volunteer

One of the hardest seasons of the year for the homeless community is winter. When the temperature starts to drop below the freezing point, people facing the elements are at risk for hypothermia which means they are also at risk for fatal consequences. This winter, try doing you part and help the homeless in one of the five ways.

Know the Signs of Hypothermia

It’s important to know what the warning signs of hypothermia is. If you are aware of the signs, it will be able to identify those who need help right away. If you notice any of the following symptoms, reach out to the affected person and get help as soon as possible:

Shivering
A weak pulse
Slurred speech
Slow and shallow breathing
Low energy
Memory loss or confusion

Hand Out Warm Clothes

You will find that in many thrift stores, churches, and even grocery stores there are barrel in which you can donate your old coats. Instead of hoarding your unused and old coats in your closets, give it to someone who needs it most.

Life can be really hard for those who live on the streets. Those who live and sleep outside often get their items stolen and don’t have the opportunity to wash their clothing very frequently. Donating hats, gloves, coats, all help to ensure that the homeless community will stay a little warmer.

Donate

During the winter months, shelters and homeless centers are at their busiest. That being said, many of the resources are strained. Hundreds of people will walk through a shelter a day looking for meals, referral services, clothing, and of course shelter. During the winter months consider helping out those on the front line. Your donation will go to a worthy cause and help buy very important products.

Step up and Volunteer

As mentioned earlier, with an increase of people in need there is a strain of resources— which includes staff. Volunteering even one shift a month at a shelter or soup kitchen can be a huge help. Make the effort and call a few of your local shelters and ask how you can volunteer your time.

Advocate for the Cause

You would be surprised to find out how many people in your own community that don’t realize just how many homeless people are in your area. It’s up to you to spread the word.

Top Charities Family & Kids Love Giving to at the Holidays

By Jerry Swon

On November 8, 2019

In Blog, Community, Volunteer

There is no better time than during the holidays to give back as a family. Whether you already give back throughout the year or wish to start a holiday-giving tradition in your family, giving back is a wonderful way to teach your children about the value of kindness. Expressing kindness through giving to those in need will lay the groundwork for your children to become more kind and generous adults, which we all know the world needs more of.

Here’s a list of top charities family and kids love giving towards during the holiday season:

Toys for Tots

Toys for Tots provides the opportunity for your family to shop for children who are less fortunate. You can purchase a new, unwrapped toy and take it to a Toys for Tots drop-off location near you. The toys will then be distributed to children in your very own community.

World Wildlife Fund

The World Wildlife Fund was established to protect wild animals and their habitats on a global scale. Your family can choose an animal adoption kit of your choice or shop the website with a portion of the proceeds going directly towards the WWF’s global conservation efforts.

Better World Books

Does your family love to read? This wonderful program allows your children to set aside their gently used books and donating them. The books will then be redistributed to children around the world. You can go to their website to find a donation box in your area or mail your books to their headquarters. This is a charity that’s great for any time of the year.

Operation Christmas Child

Operation Christmas Child takes a collection of shoeboxes filled with school supplies, toys, hygiene items, apparel, candy and more to children in need. If you donate online, you will receive a special label so that you can track your box’s journey to its final destination.

Make-a-Wish Foundation

The Make-a-Wish Foundation helps make the wishes of children with life-threatening medical needs come true. There are numerous ways to give back to this charity. You can shop at specific stores where a portion of the proceeds will go towards the Make-a-Wish Foundation. You can also raise funds by purchasing gifts through the charity’s online store.

Angel Tree

Angel Tree helps children who have a parent in prison. Statistics show that one in three prisoners is a parent with 75% of female prisoners being mothers. Through this charity, your family will pick a child to sponsor in your city or you can make a monetary donation online.

5 Companies That Give Back in Big Ways

By Jerry Swon

On October 15, 2019

In Blog, Volunteer

Corporate social responsibility (CSR) is becoming an important concern across all industries because it impacts a company’s bottom line and the community. The growing importance of CSR reports is now a factor for investment decisions among those who value sustainability. The following are 5 companies that place a major emphasis on CSR and giving back to society.

1. The Coca-Cola Company

The soft drink maker has donated over $800 million through the Coca-Cola Foundation since 1984 in its quest toward sustainability. Each year the company allocates one percent of the prior year’s operating income to the foundation and other causes. Some of the recipients receiving the largest donations have included American National Red Cross ($1.2 million) and the National Recreation and Park Association ($1 million).

2. The Walt Disney Company

The media company donated over $333 million to nonprofit organizations in 2015. Another way the giant has given back to the community is through its Disney VoluntEARS program, which promotes employee volunteer activity. This service has led to millions of hours of volunteer help. As an example of using its brand for fundraising, the Stars Wars: Force for Change initiation took in over $4.2 million for UNICEF Innovation Labs.

3. Amway

The company’s slogan is “Helping People Live Better Lives.” A primary focus is helping children in need, as the company has raised $225 million from donations since 2003. Through its partnership with the U.S. Dream Academy, Amway helps improve lives of young people by building skills and character. Another one of the company’s contributions to social responsibility is developing a health packet called Nutrilite Little Bits.

4. Starbucks

The Starbucks Foundation gives millions of dollars to nonprofit organizations. Starbucks also invests millions of dollars in its Opportunity for Youth program. The company supports sustainable ideals through its supply chain. Some of the sustainable activities Starbucks supports include biodiversity conservation, water sanitation and agricultural training.

5. Whole Foods Market

This grocery store chain focuses on healthier choices than what is found in conventional supermarkets. The company works with several foundations, such as the Whole Planet Foundation, which aims to reduce poverty in 69 countries involved with company products. The company works with programs that raise awareness for kids and teachers about nutrition.

More and more often you will find that the list of companies who give back is growing. The companies listed above are only a few, that give back to the community. Are there any other companies you believe should be added to this list?

Festive Ways to Volunteer In The Fall

By Jerry Swon

On September 23, 2019

In Community, Volunteer

There are so many opportunities for volunteering in the community during the fall. With seasonal events held regularly and community celebrations happening, volunteers can really make a difference this time of year. Best of all the cooler weather seems to bring more smiles of the face of volunteers!

Although we are only in September, October is right around the corner. A festive and fun opportunity to volunteer this fall is by organizing a trick-or-treating expedition for any underprivileged children in the area. Children’s groups are a good place to start. They may be in need of volunteers for Halloween day/night.

Another place where people can really make a difference is at nursing/retirement homes. Those who have children dressing up for Halloween are encouraged to take their kids there, in costume. This is also an activity that can be organized for the children in the neighborhood, as a group. The residents of nursing/retirement homes often enjoy seeing the children in their costumes and briefly interacting with them.

Other ways to help out in any community include starting a collection for a local charity. March of Dimes and Trick-Or-Treat UNICEF are both non-profit organizations that will likely appreciate the help. Getting people in the community to donate what they can is enough to make a difference in the holiday season.

Food banks always need donations, but this is especially true in the fall when the holiday season is about to begin. They are often happy to work with the public to run a food drive. People are generally more open to donating to this type of cause. Getting friends and neighbors together is an effective way to ensure local food banks have all the supplies they need for the season.

Charities aren’t just looking for food donations. Fall also brings with it cooler weather that requires warner clothes. The Warm Coats Warm Hearts Drive collects coats to give to those in need in communities all over the country. Another non-profit that needs help during the fall is The Pajama Program. This program ensures that local children have warm pajamas. It is always in need of volunteers to help organize and run events related to its cause.

These are just a few of the ways that people can volunteer during the fall season. Doing so can create a sense of appreciation and gratitude that only serves to enhance the meaning of the season.

Tips for Volunteering in a Soup Kitchen

By Jerry Swon

On August 26, 2019

In Blog, Volunteer

Volunteering your time is one of the most selfless things you can do, especially when it involves feeding those who are less fortunate. People may have a slew of reasons as to why they want to volunteer, but one thing is for certain; they want to help others. Volunteering at soup kitchen is an easy way to start your volunteer journey but, before you jump right in, here are a few tips you might want to take into consideration.

Tip #1: Be Okay With Taking Directions

When someone signs up to volunteer, they need to be okay with not being the boss. Volunteers are there to help others, not be the star of the show. If they’re not good at taking orders from others, it’s probably better to find another form of volunteering.

When volunteering to work in a soup kitchen, volunteers need to be open to doing whatever needs to be done. From cooking and serving to cleaning up afterward, having an open mind is a must. Since volunteers wear multiple hats, they also have to be flexible.

Tip #2: Proceed with Caution

When someone feels volunteering at a soup kitchen is right for them, they still need to proceed with caution. Whenever you decide to volunteer, you must make sure that you are in optimal health. Being around food when you are sick is a health risk for others.

In addition to not being ill, your attire should also be a consideration. Play it safe and wear sneakers as opposed to open-toed shoes. Also, it’s better to wear clothes that won’t be ruined by stains. Volunteers with long hair need to tie it back and wear a hairnet. Finally, if someone is allergic to latex, they also should bring their own gloves.

Tip #3: Think About The Many Ways Help

Even if the soup kitchen already has met its quota of volunteers, there are other ways to help out. People wanting to feed the needy can rally for local businesses and even their neighbors to donate any extra food they have. It’s nothing short of shocking how much food grocery stores and restaurants throw out every day.

Tip #4: Things to Consider

Helping others who are down on their luck is a noble cause. But even people with the biggest hearts might not understand the process of volunteering in a soup kitchen. Before offering to help do, ask questions and make sure it’s the right fit.

Top Countries To Volunteer in That Need Your Help

By Jerry Swon

On August 1, 2019

In Blog, Volunteer

Want to make a difference, but not sure where to start? Volunteering abroad can be a life-changing experience and make a positive impact on the world. You don’t have to confine yourself to United States boarders. There are many countries all over the world who need a lending hand from others. The following are the top countries that need the most support from committed volunteers.

Morocco
Morocco needs volunteers in healthcare and education. A high percentage of the country’s rural population still lives in poverty, despite a massive year-on-year commitment the government made in 2005. Volunteers seeking to make a difference in public health and women’s rights will also find ample opportunities here. Morocco follows strict Islamic customs, so volunteers should keep that in mind in their dress and behavior.

Mexico
Many immigrants come through Mexico seeking a better life in the United States. Mexico needs volunteers in healthcare and community development. People interested in biology may also be interested in joining a marine conservation project. Mexico has a sharp divide between what tourists see and experience and the daily life of its people. Pay attention to the latest warnings from the United States State Department to know which places to avoid.

Fiji
Fiji has over 300 islands. There are plenty of opportunities to volunteer in ecotourism or marine conservation. Would-be teachers might look for a chance to teach English or coach local sports. English is spoken fairly widely here, so communication isn’t difficult. However, Fiji is fairly remote and expensive to get to when compared with other volunteering opportunities abroad.

Peru
Peru’s economic inequalities lead volunteers from all over to this beautiful, mountainous country. Volunteers can contribute in community development, construction, and teaching English. Be aware of the lack of modern hygiene, but don’t let that be a barrier to making a difference.

Haiti
Haiti has been pummeled by political strife and natural disasters for years. The country is still rebuilding from an earthquake in 2010. Hurricane Matthew in 2016 has set redevelopment back even further. There are plenty of ways to volunteer in disaster relief and reconstruction. Volunteers should take the time to fully educate themselves about the requirements of their chosen program before embarking on a volunteer trip to Haiti.

Thailand
Thailand is a popular destination for backpackers, foodies, and adventurers. It’s also a great place to volunteer. One of the biggest ways to give back is in elephant protection. However, volunteers should seriously educate themselves about Thailand’s complicated sociopolitical situation before hopping on a plane.

Conserve Wildlife Foundation of New Jersey: Preserving and Protecting Wildlife

By Jerry Swon

On July 17, 2019

In Blog, Community, Volunteer

Many people may view New Jersey as a small state filled with big cities and urban communities. The fact is though, New Jersey has much wildlife that is considered to be rare and endangered. These animals need help to survive.

These rare and endangered species can be found throughout the state, in the northern mountains, the central farmlands, and along the eastern shore. They even can be found living on bridges and skyscrapers. They struggle against the building of roads and developments, as well as, the contamination of the wetlands.

How the Conserve Wildlife Foundation of NJ Helps

The mission of the Foundation is to “preserve rare and imperiled species of wildlife that live and breed in, and migrate through New Jersey.” They research the best science and utilize known workable conservation techniques. They get the public involved by sponsoring educational activities and allowing volunteers to help. All of this effort is put forth to help endangered species to recover or to keep another species from becoming endangered.

The Foundation further accomplishes its mission by doing the following:

Research the various types of species, their populations and their preferred environment.
Implement conservation plans to impede the decline of populations and start the recovery of species.
Restoring wildlife habitat that can support the growth of wildlife communities.
Educating New Jersey citizens about the wildlife that lives here and how they are responsible to help protect it.
Developing partnerships to help the Foundation be more effective and efficient.
Developing a workforce of volunteers committed to protecting the biodiversity of N.J.

You Can Volunteer to Help Protect New Jersey’s Wildlife

The Conserve Wildlife Foundation of N.J. is looking for volunteers to help them fulfill their mission. Are you interested in helping to protect New Jersey’s rarest animals or helping restore important wildlife habitats? Would you like to help New Jersians have pride in their unique wildlife heritage? You can do that by helping out the Foundation. Listed below are some of the ways you can help.

Join and become a member of the Foundation.
Sign up to donate on a monthly basis.

Volunteer to help; choose from a list of projects to support.
Adopt a species.
Attend and support a Foundation event.

The Conserve Wildlife Foundation of N.J. is working hard to keep wildlife in New Jersey’s future. They do this by building strong wildlife populations and habitats. They appreciate the support of other like-minded individuals. Maybe you can be one of those individuals.

How You Can Bring Change to Your Community

By Jerry Swon

On June 5, 2019

In Blog, Community

There is nothing as good as living in a place and bringing about some form of positive change. Creating an impact within your community can help to improve the lives of the locals while also creating a name for yourself. The opportunities are limitless as far as the options you have to bring some change in your community.

Donating for charity

Every community should have an opportunity for residents to contribute to charity. Even if no charity organization exists in your area, you may opt to rally the locals towards donating and raising money for other charitable causes. You may also champion the idea of establishing regular visits to nearby children homes as a way of upholding philanthropy.

Be a responsible resident

Another way you can help bring about change within your area is if you get yourself actively involved in local politics and issues of social, economic, and political concern. Active involvement in such issues helps ensure that the local government is brought to task and supervised accordingly to ensure responsible leadership. Such a contribution helps alleviate some of the most common leadership challenges that poorly governed communities face.

Being a recycling ambassador

One of the greatest challenges we have in our time is the need to live environmentally-responsible lives. Being cautious of how resourcefully to use the environment by recycling and practicing proper disposal of waste can help bring an impact. As we all know, trash has a very negative impact on our environment. Recycling helps us conserve energy and keep our environment looking healthy and clean. Recycling waste yourself can also impact other people who may have you as a role model as far as maintaining the integrity of the environment is concerned.

Buying local

Buying local has a ton of great benefits! It reduces environmental impact, keeps the community unique, and creates more local ownership and jobs. It is always said that buying locally produced items helps build the local economy. You should, therefore, target frequenting the local stores and grocery outlets for your common shopping needs. Besides, buying locally produced items gives you access to fresh produce directly from the farm. Buying locally also help sustain the locals’ businesses, thereby creating economic sustainability.

Become socially conscious

Social consciousness in a community is crucial in helping maintain peace and stability within the area. Social responsibility can be practiced by endeavoring to check on the welfare of your neighbors and empathetically solving common social problems.

Community Service Ideas for Families

By Jerry Swon

On May 20, 2019

In Blog, Volunteer

Giving back to your city, town, or neighborhood through community service can be both fun and rewarding for the entire family and beneficial to your local community as well. Helping others who are in need, or beautifying or city through community service work as a family can also strengthen bonds between parents and siblings. Community service also makes you feel better about yourself through the joy of giving. If you’re considering community service for you and your family, here are 6 ideas that will make your family happier and stronger and your community a better place live.

Give food, serve food

Donating food to a homeless shelter or soup kitchen is a great way to help others in need, but serving food to the homeless in addition to donating food is a great way for families to bond as a unit and it can help foster an attitude of gratefulness in young adults and children.

Assist senior citizens

Assist seniors with household tasks such as mowing the lawn, painting, and household chores. Many seniors have a lot of wisdom, and life experiences to share which can be beneficial to you and your family and entertaining as well.

Clean up a park

Get together as a family and clean up your favorite park by picking up trash. You can make the experience even more memorable by having a family picnic after your service work is complete.

Plant trees and flowers

Find areas around your neighborhood that could use a little sprucing up and plant trees or flowers. Visit your local home improvement store as a family to select the type of flowers, plants, or trees you would like to plant. Planting as a family not only allows you the opportunity to beautify your neighborhood, it provides an educational opportunity for you and your family to learn about plants and growing.

Volunteer to help animals in need

Visit your local animal shelter and volunteer to clean up kennels and cages and feed homeless cats and dogs. Children love animals. Helping animals in need of love and attention is a great way for families to grow closer while helping the local community.

Organize a Christmas toy drive

Everyone loves receiving gifts at Christmas time. Organizing a Christmas toy drive with your family is a good way to teach children about the joys of giving and helping children who are less fortunate. Collect new toys around your neighborhood or take donations to buy toys, and donate them to your local shelter or to families in need.