Making Healthy Food Drive Donations

One in four Georgia children are “food insecure” and struggling with hunger. This means that more than 700,000 children in our state have gone hungry at some point in their young lives. Children's Healthcare of Atlanta believes that all children should have access to healthy foods. So instead of cleaning out your pantry for the next food drive, make a conscious decision to donate healthy items. You will not only be filling tummies, but helping to improve school performance, boost energy levels, strengthen immune systems and lower risk of chronic conditions like diabetes, heart disease and obesity. Many generous Georgians want to help by donating food but don't know what to give.  Children's Healthcare of Atlanta's Director of Child Wellness, and Registered Dietitian, Trisha Hardy gives you simple tips for selecting the best foods for donation.

1.    Include a protein source - very important for growing children

·         Canned or pouched chicken, tuna fish or salmon (in water, low sodium)

·         Canned/dried beans or peas (low sodium/no salt added)

·         Canned or pouched chili, beef stew or bean soup (low or reduced sodium)

·         Peanut butter

·         Nuts and seeds

2.    Focus on fruit instead of fruit juice

·         Apple sauce (no sugar-added)

·         Dried fruit (no sugar-added), raisins

·         Fruit cups and canned fruit in water or 100% fruit juice

·         Whole fresh fruits (apples, oranges) *

3.    Donate veggies

·         Canned green beans

·         Canned tomatoes or pasta sauce (low-sodium)

·         Veggie soups

·         Salsa packaged in non-glass container

·         Whole fresh veggies (sweet potatoes, onions, greens)*

4.    Pick up unflavored milk/calcium sources

·         Low-fat or non-fat powdered milk

·         Plain/unsweetened shelf-stable, low-fat/ non-fat milk

·         Plain soy, almond or rice milk (fortified with calcium & vitamin D)

·         Fat-free/low-fat canned evaporated milk

5.    Choose whole grains/cereals with few additives

·         Plain brown or wild rice

·         Quinoa and whole grain couscous

·         Whole grain pasta

·         Whole grain, low sugar cereal e.g. plain Cheerios

·         Plain or low-sugar oatmeal

·         Whole grain fig bars

·         Graham crackers

·         Whole grain crackers (i.e. Triscuits)

·         Popcorn 

* Many food pantries now accept fresh fruits and veggies, but you may want to inquire before purchasing

 All children deserve access to healthy food, so consider donating time, money or food to a member of The Georgia Food Bank Association.  Visit Strong4Life.com for more information on tips for hosting a healthy food drive.