Peanut Butter- the price has increase dramatically and its a pantry staple for several reasons: its easy for children to prepare a ‘meal’, its got protein, it stretches and its pretty universally liked. Check your coupons and store specials for deals.
Photo courtesy of North Hills Community Outreach
Cereal – Another example of easy to fix and universally appealing. Cereals with nutritious content – fiber, low sugar, etc – can make a big impact. With summer comes the loss of school breakfasts and lunches so donating cereal is a good way to help prepare for increased demand. This is a perfect way to use those “Buy 2, Get 1 Free” coupons so often printed by cereal companies. Coupon Billie has a great deal on Cheerios on her site.
Juice – Look for deals on 100% juice. Juice boxes are also good, but you typically get a better deal on the large bottles. Any type of juice is needed.
Canned Tuna/Chicken – Again, a source of protein that lends itself to recipes and multiple uses.
Sister Supplies – Donating tampons, pads and related items can help a family stretch their cash to cover gas to get to work, utilities and more. These items are not covered by food stamps and yet so critical. Manufacturer coupons are pretty plentiful. Drug stores often have sweet deals on these products, especially if you match them up with coupons & the store savings programs. 
Beans/Legumes – Packages of dried beans are a great way to stretch the dollar, but its also important to keep in mind that not everyone knows *how to prepare* them in a tasty manner. Canned beans – kidney, red, black, chickpeas – carry protein and can be prepared & seasoned quickly. Why not consider donating both?
Fruit – Fruit cups, canned fruit cocktail packed in water, applesauce and even dried raisins are great ways to include fruit in your donation. These are also items that children can prepare for their own snack while their parents are at work.
Soup – Again, a great way to take advantage of the coupons which often are Buy 3, Get 2 Free or some such large quantity. Buy some for your pantry and share. This includes stews and heartier canned items. Also, somewhat easy for children to prepare and universally appealing.
Paper products – Food stamps (SNAP) do not cover toilet paper, paper towels, facial tissue. Take advantage of frequent manufacturer coupons to buy some for your home and some for your neighbors. Coupon on bulk pack of paper towels.
Cleaning supplies – Also not covered by SNAP (food stamps) and also essential. Look for coupons for laundry detergent and all purpose cleaners. You can also find deals on cleaning accessories, but remember – donating a mechanism that requires purchasing “refills” isn’t the most practical solution unless you are working directly with a family or a case management team. Sponges, gloves, and the like are occasionally on sale, too. 
FINALLY … the tote bag. Put everything in a bag and you’ve got a great donation. Most retailers have totes available for a modest price, near $1.00. Some retailers like Kohl’s occasionally discount their online totes to as low as $.73 including shipping. You can often find sturdy totes at your local thrift store, but you can often find one for free – just ask. Ask your neighbors, family and coworkers to go through their tote “stash” and donate a few to the cause. Coupons for totes are rare, but opportunities to acquire a ‘freebie’ are fairly common.
How are you planning to Coupon for your Community this week?
