Finding Local or BC Support
Finding Local or BC Support
Donate Food
Donating food is one of the simplest and most meaningful ways to support your community. Whether you’re giving a few pantry items or organizing a larger collection, every contribution helps make a difference.
Most Wanted Food Items
General
Vegetables & Fruit (Canned)
Cooking Oils
(olive & canola)
Dried Herbs and Spices
Mayo & Condiments
Pasta & pasta sauce
Prepared Meals
Crackers and Granola Bars
Healthy Meals in a box
Soup, Stew and Chili
Healthy Whole Grain Cereal
Small Snack Items
Protein
Canned Chicken,
Fish & Ham
Peanut & Nut Butter
Protein Bars and Drinks
Cheese & Dairy Products
Nuts
Toiletries
Feminine Hygiene Products
Shampoo & Conditioner
Body Wash
Single Use Razors
Toothpaste
Miscellaneous Items
Gluten Free Options • Animal Food • Socks
We do not except
Farm Eggs • Open or broken seals • Expired food
Do's and Dont's for Donating Food Items
Can you donate baby food?
Yes—baby supplies like puréed vegetables, powdered formula and baby cereal are needed too. Diapers and baby wipes are likewise in demand. We don’t have a lot of young families on the island so these items are not as needed as food donations. Please call us to see what baby items are currently in need.
Can you donate hygiene products?
Yes—the following (must be new and unopened): menstrual products, shampoo, deodorant, toothbrushes and toothpaste, dish soap and laundry detergent. (Due to space limitations, the list of accepted items is subject to change.) Please call us to see what hygiene items are currently in need.
Can you donate animal food?
Yes—we can take opened and unopened pet foods. Preferably unopened for easy of distribution to our participates.
Check expiry dates
Only donate items that are unopened and well within their “best before” or “use by” dates.
Choose nutritious options
Non-perishable, high-protein, and nutrient-rich foods like canned tuna, beans, soups, nut butters, and whole grains are always appreciated.
Think practical
Items that are easy to prepare—especially those requiring minimal cooking—help individuals with limited kitchen access.
Donate in original packaging
Keep food in its original, sealed container with ingredient and nutrition labels intact.
Consider dietary needs
Gluten-free, low-sodium, and vegetarian items are often in demand.
Include staple foods
Rice, pasta, oats, canned vegetables, and shelf-stable milk are useful for most households.
Don’t give homemade or home-canned foods
Regulations require all donated food to come from approved, commercial sources.
Don’t donate expired or opened items
Even slightly expired goods can’t be distributed for safety reasons.
Where to Donate Food
We gratefully accept both non-perishable and perishable food donations to support our mission.
Donations can be dropped off directly at our office from Monday to Friday, between 9:30AM - 3:30PM
For added convenience, you can also donate food items at Nester's Marketplace during their regular business hours. Look for our donation bin near the LOTTO desk when you visit Nester's.
Please consult our list of most wanted items.
Grow a Row
The "Plant • Grow • Share a Row" program is a simple yet powerful initiative that encourages gardeners the spirit of giving. By dedicating an extra row or two to growing vegetables specifically for donation.
To facilitate the distribution of these homegrown goods, gardeners are encouraged to bring their harvested produce to the PHC's office, ideally on Tuesdays or Wednesdays. This allows volunteers to efficiently pack the fresh vegetables into the Food Grocery program, ensuring that they reach those in need in a timely manner.
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Beans • Peas • Tomatoes • Beets • Turnips • Potatoes • Leafy greens • Onions • Garlic • Carrots • Zucchini • Squash • Melons • Berries • All Tree Fruits • Grapes