Food Donation Drive Checklist: What to Donate and What Not To

Support our cause: “No people hungry in Dwarka!”

When you decide to help those in need through food donations, you’re doing something truly kind. But let’s face it—many of us are unsure what to donate. Will this item be useful? Is it safe? Could it go to waste? If you’re joining the movement for “no people hungry in Dwarka, Delhi”, or anywhere across the city, this guide is for you.

Why What You Donate Matters

When food is donated thoughtfully, it can genuinely feed someone. When it isn’t, it may do more harm than good—or simply go to waste. The goal of initiatives like “no people hungry in Delhi” is to ensure every meal donated is nutritious, hygienic, and ready to make a difference.

Let’s look at what should and shouldn’t be part of your food donation box.

What to Donate: Make Every Item Count

1. Non-Perishable, Sealed Items: Stick to packaged foods with long shelf lives. Think of:

• Rice, wheat flour, lentils, and pulses,
• Biscuits and dry snacks,
• Canned beans, vegetables, and soups,
• Instant noodles and ready-to-eat meals (only if unopened and within expiry).

2. Baby Food and Formula: If sealed and not expired, baby formula and food pouches are incredibly helpful for families with infants.

3. Cooking Essentials: These are always in demand: cooking oil, salt and sugar, tea leaves and spices in sealed packs.

4. Bottled Water and Juices: If they’re unopened and within expiry, they’re a great addition.

5. Freshly Cooked Food (With Precautions): If you’re planning to donate hot meals, coordinate with an NGO or local food bank like Durga Saptashati Foundation. Food must be prepared in a clean environment and delivered promptly.

What Not to Donate: Avoid These Items

1. Expired or Opened Packages: If you wouldn’t eat it, don’t donate it. Expired items pose health risks, and open packs can be unsafe.

2. Perishable Items Without Cold Storage: Fruits, dairy, and meat spoil quickly. Only donate them if the drive has cold chain storage.

3. Alcohol or Homemade Preserves: Alcohol is never appropriate, and jams or pickles made at home may not meet safety standards.

4. Half-Eaten or Leftover Food: Never donate food that’s been served or partially eaten. Hygiene is critical when feeding vulnerable populations.

Make It Count for ‘No People Hungry in Dwarka Delhi’

Every donation has the power to feed someone tonight. At Durga Saptashati Foundation, we’re on a mission to ensure “no people hungry in Dwarka” becomes more than a slogan—it becomes a shared reality.

If you’ve ever thought, “I want to help, but I don’t know how”—this is your answer. Start small. One thoughtful food box can bring a meal, a smile, and some relief.

Act today. The need is real. The solution could be sitting in your pantry right now.

Support our food and health initiatives by contributing to Durga Saptahsti NGO in Delhi and help make our “no people hungry” mission a reality.