Resources to Support Local Shelters & Families
Explore practical ways to support food banks, shelters, and local families in need. Each section below highlights a different type of resource, along with ideas for how you can get involved.
Grocery List
Use this list to purchase food for local shelters as a family or for food drives. We compiled this list based on area needs and to help consolidate the items that are purchased.
- Dried black or pinto beans
- Rice
- Spaghetti and 24 oz sauce
- Canned fruits and vegetables
- Canned chicken or tuna
- Peanut butter and jelly
- Packaged milk
- Cereal
- Diapers (Call local agencies for current needs and sizes)
Shower Kits / Laundry / Diapers
Shower kits are provided to local shelters and have become an essential item for many of the local providers. You can buy the toothpaste, soap, toothbrushes, and shampoo in bulk. This is a great project for families, organizations, and kids.
Laundry Pods & Diapers
Local shelters are in need of laundry detergent and diapers of various sizes. You can contact the local agencies for current needs. We have found that 3×3 zip lock bags work well with the laundry pods.
Family Fresh
Partner with local food pantries and grocery stores to provide fresh, healthy food in bulk. Commercial refrigeration and freezers allow pantries to store perishable items and offer a wider variety of nutritious options to families.
We have worked with local pantries to provide commercial refrigeration and freezers so they can accept a variety of fresh foods. This is essential in providing for people in need. You can purchase bulk food items such as milk, eggs, deli meats, and fresh fruit, then coordinate delivery to local shelters or food banks.
To get started, contact local store managers to set up orders for groups and organizations. This is a great way for families and organizations to provide healthy food for local families in need. You choose the amount you want to contribute, and most local food banks have vehicles that can pick up larger orders.
We have used Gordon Food Services for our bulk fresh food orders, but you may be able to do the same with local Publix and Aldi stores. Reach out to the store manager to request bulk orders of the items your local agencies need most.