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Your pantry is a chaotic thing, filled to cans and plastic, the sagging shelves. You stare at it, stunned by the sheer… amount of food you have managed to accumulate. It would be impressive if it wasn’t so excessive. In preparation for the impending holidays (making certain that every meal could be a success, a tribute to winter recipes), you have collected far too many items; and you no longer have room to stock your recent purchases. Something must be done — and you’re certain that it’s now time to donate.
Charities are forever in need of goods, wishing to offer them to families lacking the resources to afford them. And all of your extra products can become invaluable. The simple desire to donate them, however, is not enough. You must instead be aware of which items provide the most value and which should be ignored.
Choose only to give goods that are non-perishable. Canned vegetables (such as peas, carrots and corn) and canned fruits (like peaches, pineapples and cherries) should be considered — but only if they have been properly sealed and offer no signs of leakage. Pastas, cereals, soups, crackers and rice can also be given; as long as they can be stored in the correct temperatures.
Never offer items that have limited expiration dates, such as: meats, fresh vegetables and seafood. Also do not send any goods that must be refrigerated (whether before or after opening). Any food product that comes in a paper wrapper — like flour — should be resealed to ensure that it can’t be torn during transport. There would be a worry of mold.
You wish to provide goods to charity. This is a worthy thought and should be acted upon. You must first simply understand what is appropriate to donate and what will instead only cause confusion. Make wise choices for the holidays and don’t undo all of your better impulses by offering what can’t be accepted.
