“Food banks are grateful for the donations they receive during the holiday season, especially in a year as challenging as 2020.” explains Chris Hatch, Chief Executive Officer for Food Banks Canada. 

Here are some of the items food banks need the most this holiday season: 

Whole grain foods like oatmeal, barley, high-fibre cereals or whole-grain pasta contain plenty of fibre and are an excellent source of minerals like magnesium and iron. Food banks with meal programs will use them in their kitchens to create fresh meals for their clients. 

Lean proteins from foods like canned tuna and chicken; plant proteins like peanut butter, beans, and lentils; or more complete proteins contained in other canned meats help in the maintenance of body tissue and contribute to a feeling of satiety. Nut butters are a favourite because they’re a versatile ingredient in snacks and meals. 

Canned fruit is high in vitamin C and dietary fibre. Likewise, if they’re free of added salt and sugars, studies suggest that frozen and canned vegetables are often as good as fresh produce. 

Milk alternatives like shelf stable milk, powdered milk, almond milk, and rice milk from the grocery store shelf contain vitamin D, vitamin A, and, most importantly, calcium. 

Money is by far the best donation you can make to your local food bank. Financial donations give food banks the flexibility to buy fresh perishables for their hampers or load up on items they’re not getting enough of.

Making a trip to the grocery store this holiday season? Pick something up for yourself and a Canadian in need, during these critical times. Donate at any participating Loblaw location during the Loblaw Holiday Food Drive. 100% of food and funds raised goes to your local food bank! 

The Loblaw Holiday Food Drive begins on November 23 in Quebec and November 26 in the rest of Canada and runs until December 24, 2020.