Toronto food banks are seeing skyrocketing use. Here's a guide to what they really need — and what you shouldn't donate

As the giving season approaches, many people turn their attention to food banks. But while the need for donations is especially high during the holidays, the truth is, food banks rely on support year-round to meet the growing demand. The number of Canadians who are food insecure is rising with each year, with Food Banks Canada reporting more than two million visits to the nations’ food bank in a single month this year.

Food bank organizers emphasize that systemic issues like affordable housing and living wages must be addressed to end hunger, but food donations remain critical in the short term. Not all donations are created equal though. “If you’re not going to eat it, other people aren’t going to eat it,” says Meghan Nicholls, CEO of Food Banks Mississauga, which served more than 56,000 people over the course of a year.



She adds that while it’s well-intentioned, dropping off a frozen turkey at a firehall’s grocery donation bin is not a good idea. Below is a guide to the most-needed items for food banks, along with a reminder of what not to donate. Whether you’re clearing out your pantry or looking to donate on a larger scale, it’s important to understand what’s helpful — and what’s not.

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