Jonathan RoweNov 14, 2022

Any moment now, as Christmas and (American) Thanksgiving get closer, people will start posting suggestions of things to donate to food banks and 'Reverse Advent Calendars'.

I can't stress this enough:
Just. Give. Money.

Food banks can usually get more bang for their buck than you can.
They'll probably be able to give you a tax receipt for money, but not for cans.
And it lets them buy, store, and distribute food in the volumes they need and can handle.

(Please boost to make sure people get the message.)

#FoodBanks #FoodInsecurity #Christmas #Thanksgiving #Charity #JustGiveMoney

Show threadThe Raft FoundationNov 15, 2022
@jondrowe We're happy with both, whichever works for the person #giving
#ThankYou for tooting 😘
Show threadJonathan RoweNov 16, 2022
@TheRaftFoundationFoodbank I hear that. ❤️
There's definitely value in the physical act of donating food—but one of the most important things we can do is ask 'What do you need? How can I help?'
And then honouring that request, whether it's stuff or cash.
Show threadSusan MacDonald
@jondrowe @TheRaftFoundationFoodbank I read recently that food banks specifically in Scotland can get better deals therefore quantity if they have money rather than a luxury mince pudding that goes to one person.
Nov 26, 2022 at 12:09pmWeb
Show threadThe Raft FoundationNov 26, 2022
@SMMac @jondrowe
Yes, it all depends. Some supermarkets have a limit of 3 of any one item, especially for the own brand ranges, which doesn't really work for us trying to buy multiples of any thing.
We are exploring a number of different buying routes. Plus buying stuff takes up a volunteer's time which is often in short supply, too.
Not everyone is comfortable giving cash, either, for lots of different reasons.
We're happy to accept whatever works for the donors.
It's always a balancing act.