A heartbreaking thing you can’t donate to the New Jersey Food Bank

It’s that time of year when people think about donating to their favorite charity.

We often think about donating food or money to help those in our community who don’t have enough to eat.

Food banks and pantries often report that this is their busiest time of year. (In reality, the need is always there – donating to these organizations is a great idea any time of year.

What can you donate to food banks?

The Community Food Bank of New Jersey is probably the largest food bank in the state. The company operates in two primary locations: Egg Harbor Township and Hillside.

On their website you will find various ways to help, from monetary donations to food donations. Check them out here.

When it comes to food, almost everything is good as long as it lasts and doesn’t spoil.

Here is a list of what they can accept:

Canned fish and meat such as tuna, chicken and ham.

Shelf-stable milk. (Not refrigerated milk)

Ready meals such as pasta, rice and potatoes.)

Canned and packaged meals like mac and cheese, chili and soups.

Peanut butter, only in plastic jars.

Canned vegetables and fruits.

Diapers and feminine hygiene products.

What can’t be donated?

When it comes to the food issue, we often think of families, children and babies.

One thing you can’t donate is baby food!

Of course we want to help the babies, but we can’t. Baby food usually has a short shelf life and baby food often comes in jars. (No glass of any kind will be accepted.)

The good news here is that food banks often use donated money and purchase certain baby formula and groceries directly for clients who need them.

So, donate now and all year round – just hold back on the baby food – donate money if you want to specifically help the little ones.