Combat hungeR with Healthy Food
One in six Americans is relying on food pantries, soup kitchens, and the like to survive. Our nation is in dire need, not just for food but for HEALTHY nonperishables that are hard to come by in overwhelmed food relief centers.
Over the last four years, our Think Before You Donate campaign has taught millions the best nonperishable foods to give to heal the hungry . . . and why healthy food matters so much.
We’ve also got some big ideas and fresh updates for this initiative COMING SOON. Check back on this page often to make sure you don’t miss anything!
38 Million Americans Need You to Take Action Now
The USDA estimates about 53.6 million people, or 17.4% of the population in the U.S., live in areas considered low income and low access, meaning the nearest supermarket is more than a half mile or 10 miles away. Indeed . . .
Black Americans have half and Hispanics one-third the access to chain supermarkets that white Americans do.
These communities rely on convenience and fast food. There’s a general lack of access to fresh produce and healthy foods, and – when people can find them – they’re rarely affordable. Over time, this makes them more susceptible to heart disease, obesity, Type 2 Diabetes, and hypertension. Poor nutrition also weakens brain function—in adults and children.
We must help extend healing and nutrition to our neighbors.
We make it easy for you to teach others to think before they donate – at your collections at church, school, and work, as well as at food banks, soup kitchens, and food pantries. And to host a healthy food drive and to do so safely regardless of what’s happening in the world.
How Can You Help?
- Educate yourself by downloading the Best Foods to Donate List.
- Teach others by sharing this page! Here are some easy links: Facebook | Twitter | LinkedIn.
- Host a Healthy Food Drive
“. . . Whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers and sisters of mine, you did for me.”
Matthew 25:40
Critical Facts |
Healthy Food Drive Poster (Editable) |
FAQ's |
Food Drive Kickoff Video |
Non-religious Food Drive Kickoff Video |
Do It Now
Bring desperately needed healing to the hungry – in this time of enormous need. It's as easy as 1, 2, 3.
1. Educate yourself and others. Does your church, school, workplace, or charitable organization hold a food collection?
Use our downloadable materials and videos to teach them why healthy nonperishables are so critically important.
Learn which items to give: lean proteins, no sodium vegetables, no sugar fruits, and whole grain items.
Emphasize that healthy choices are not necessarily more expensive, particularly if you purchase generic brands or shopping at Aldi, Lidl, and other lower-priced stores. Make healthy swaps for nonperishables: choose tuna in water over tuna in oil; brown rice over white rice; unsweetened fruit cups over those with heavy syrups; no sodium canned vegetables over those with sodium added.
2. Transform an existing collection at your place of worship, school, work, or elsewhere into a healthy drive.
3. Host a Healthy Food Drive.
We invite you to share your healthy food drives and collections on your social media with #thinkbeforeyoudonate.
Need tips, ideas, or help for your healthy food drive?
