Food parcels

I see that Countdown is running its winter appeal, so thought I'd share my experiences with food parcels.

I've had a few instances in the past where I've had to apply for assistance from the salvation army. They were absolutely a lifesaver, and got me through a tough time in my life. Please do tap yes to rounding up on the self checkouts.

If the following sounds ungrateful, it's not meant to whatsoever.

If you're thinking of donating food directly, please consider donating things like margarine, yoghurt, eggs, fruit+veges, instant hot chocolate or latte satchets, flavourful cereal or oatmeal, and ready made meals e.g. tinned soups, frozen pizza or the like. (Of course alongside the usual milk powder, baked beans etc).

I say that as I don't think I've ever received margarine in a parcel. My friend says they've never gotten it either. It can be a bit tricky considering the abundance of bread that's handed out. Margarine is good as it doubles as cooking oil - I don't recall ever getting oil either.

As for the other suggestions, often when you're at the point of needing help with food it can be disheartening (let alone unhealthy) to eat plain rice with plain tuna or tinned spaghetti for every meal with the occasional chocolate biscuit thrown in, Hence me suggesting ready made meals and nutrients dense but easy to prepare/store foods. Coffee and hot chocolate because well, it's winter, they're comforting.

I'd personally have loved it to recieve a selection of ingredients to make a specific recipe, or maybe come across a little motivational letter or a funny joke hidden inside packaging (keeping hygiene in mind).

Pet food, toiletries, and cleaning supplies are helpful as those are expensive but essential. I don't have kids but I assume baby products are also helpful. Non-food items are also amazing to be offered - I once received a big fluffy blanket which has been my favorite blanket ever since.

Basically, put yourself in the shoes of who you're donating to. You have had some big and unexpected expenses that have left you with $10 for the week. There is almost no food in the pantry. You are eating plain oats cooked with plain tinned tomatoes for every meal because you need to feed your pet before yourself. You are using hand soap to wash your hair. You are losing weight, you are running out of willpower and are barely making it through each day. You apply for a food parcel. What would make you squeal with relief and delight?

Disclaimer: I don't know how it works behind the scenes as I haven't ever volunteered at a food bank, only made and received donations. I also have only ever applied for parcels when it's just myself and my cats so I probably got the leftovers. Anything is appreciated in the end anyway.