What to Put in a Food Pantry Basket for Christmas
One in six people in the United States doesn't always have enough food, according to Feeding America, a national network of food banks. A lack of food is probably felt more keenly during holidays, when parents yearn to put traditional dishes on the table, and the elderly long to have the treats they enjoyed when they were younger. Even if you yourself could use a little more money, consider putting together holiday baskets for your local food pantry. Make it a family activity. By doing so, you model the value of generosity. Better yet, make it an activity that involves your children and their friends. Does this Spark an idea?
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Fruits
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Canned fruit is one option for a food basket. Applesauce and mandarin oranges are both enjoyed at this time of the year. Fruit juice is acceptable, as well.
When you're donating food baskets to a pantry, find out if fresh foods are accepted. If they are, add them to the basket. Apples and oranges are good choices, as most families appreciate having them, and they tend to keep for a long time.
Vegetables
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Canned or fresh vegetables have their place in a holiday basket, as well. Potatoes, onions and garlic are staples that go into many holiday meals, as are carrots, peas and corn. Pickles of any variety are another option. Squash is often roasted or used in holiday soups.
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Meat
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Turkey is the usual fare for a Christmas meal. A whole turkey is often given to needy families, but if the recipient is single, or there are only a couple of people in the household, turkey breast is enough. Ham is an option, but some people don't eat it for religious or health reasons, so you're probably better off sticking with turkey.
Desserts
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Homemade pies and cookies are often added to Christmas food baskets. They're a delightful addition if your food bank allows them. If not, add packaged desserts or the makings of a dessert. Put in an already made pie crust and cans of filling. Browse the baking supplies aisle of your supermarket for boxes of cookie, brownie and cake mixes. Add cans of frosting.
More Options
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Other meal components are often added to food pantry baskets. The items may depend on your food bank's refrigeration capabilities. Milk is one such item. If the food bank has no refrigerator, give powdered milk. Cider is a festive drink that many families enjoy. Nuts are an expensive item that many holiday recipes call for but some families cannot afford. Add them. Also consider adding herbs and spices, which many families like to use but don't buy because they're too expensive.
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References
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