The holiday season is a time to give back to the local community and help those who may not have the means to provide a holiday sit-down dinner for their family. Figuring out what to donate to local food banks may seem self-explanatory, but there are a few often overlooked staples to consider picking up when shopping for this initiative.

Toiletries

• Shampoo
• Body wash

Snacks/Drinks

• Popcorn
• Granola bars
• Dried fruit
• Gelatin
• Pudding
• Applesauce
• Instant coffee
• Tea bags
• Bottled water

Condiments

• Jam
• Honey
• Ketchup
• Olive oil
• Vinegar

Cooking ingredients

• Spices
• Flour
• Pancake mix
• Broth or stock
• Whole grain pasta