At Emmanuel United Church, we believe in extending a helping hand to those in need. Our Food Cupboard is a vital community resource dedicated to providing essential food items to individuals and families facing food insecurity. Open to everyone, the Food Cupboard offers a welcoming environment where dignity and compassion are at the forefront of our service.

How You Can Help: Supporting the Food Cupboard is a community effort, and there are many ways you can contribute:

1. Food Contributions: We are always in need of food, spices, pantry staples and more…

• Peanut Butter: Liked by both kids and adults, and high in protein, peanut butter is the most requested item by food banks. Consider donating peanut butter alternatives too!
• Canned Proteins: Canned chicken is a great way to provide versatile, high-protein items to those in need. Items like canned tuna and salmon also contain vitamins, omega-3 fatty acids, and protein which make a quick and easy meal.
• Canned Beans: Canned beans – like black beans, garbanzo beans, black-eyed peas, green beans, and pinto beans – are high in protein and fiber and provide a nutritious way to fill a hungry tummy.
• Pasta & Pasta Sauce: Super easy to make and exceptionally filling, pasta and pasta sauce are great items to include in your donation box. Opt for whole grain pasta since it offers more fiber and nutrition than white pasta.
• Pantry Staples: Can you imagine having to cook in a kitchen without any flour or sugar? Unfortunately, this is a reality for many food-insecure households. Donating items like flour, sugar, or condiments will greatly benefit those in need.
• Canned Vegetables: Veggies are always high in demand, and for good reason. Nutrient-rich, and fiber-dense, they tend to last the longest in pantries and are the perfect, easy way to provide healthy options.
• Cooking Essentials: In many food-insecure households, access to cooking basics isn’t available often. Stick to the basics, like olive oil, garlic powder, minced onion, oregano, basil, salt, pepper, and cinnamon.
• Formula: In food-insecure communities, many parents are unable to breastfeed but struggle to buy formula due to the high costs. While there are programs available that provide formula to low-income families, it never hurts to have more than enough.
• Baby Food: For the same reason you should donate formula, it’s a good idea to donate any unused baby foods that may be hiding in your pantry.
• Most needed by the homeless: Think underwear (boxer shorts are usually in high demand), socks, pajamas, hoodies, sweatpants, and seasonal garb, such as winter coats. Items in a variety of sizes for men, women, and children make great donations.
• Shelf-stable Proteins: Like beans, tuna, and peanut butter, they never go to waste.
• Feminine Hygiene Products: Items like pads, tampons, and liners are essential for maintaining dignity and health.

2. Monetary Contributions: Financial donations help us purchase fresh produce, dairy, and other essential items to ensure a balanced diet for our recipients. You can donate online through our website or in person.

3. Volunteer: Your time is invaluable. Volunteers assist with sorting and distributing food, organizing shelves, and helping during distribution days. It’s a rewarding way to make a direct impact in our community.

4. Spread the Word: Share information about the Food Cupboard with friends, family, and through your social networks. Awareness is key to reaching those in need and potential supporters.

Every act of kindness, no matter how small, makes a significant difference. Together, we can ensure that no one in our community goes hungry.

For more information on how to get involved, please email us at EmmanuelUnited@cogeco.net or contact us directly (705) 472 1806.

Thank you for your support!