"NON-FOOD" PROGRAM

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​Low-income families struggle to afford basic household necessities that are needed to maintain personal hygiene, household care and sense of self. Donated non-food essentials help families stretch their limited resources using those saved dollars to pay for other necessities like rent, utilities, or gas for a car. Also, SNAP benefits (Food Stamps) can only be used toward food. SNAP does not cover purchases of items like soap, shampoo, bathroom tissue, or diapers so these items are always in high-demand at pantries. 

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A recent study, In Short Supply: American Families Struggle to Secure Everyday Essentials, released by Feeding America revealed coping strategies and spending trade offs used by low-income families struggling to afford basic necessities in the previous 12 months include:

 

39% of families reported brushing their teeth without toothpaste.

49% of families reported cutting back on medical expenses.

74% of families reported skipping washing dishes or doing laundry.

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What is appropriate to donate?

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• Personal Hygiene Products

• Toothbrushes

• Tooth paste

• Toilet paper

• Body Wash

• Deodorant

• Woman's Hygiene Products

• Household Cleaning Supplies

• Shampoo

• Conditioner

• Hand Soap