With the ongoing government shutdown and Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits delayed, food banks must be more prepared than ever. As donations dip and demand surges, every dollar and calorie matters. To get the most out of your donations and protect those you serve — especially first-time recipients — follow best practices for safe, efficient food storage and distribution. Here are some key strategies to help your organization continue feeding your community effectively and safely, even during challenging times.
Dry storage best practices
Proper storage of dry goods is critical to prevent spoilage, contamination and pest infestations. Follow these guidelines to ensure the longevity of your donations.
- Elevate your donations: Store food at least 6 inches off the floor to protect against pests and water damage, and to facilitate cleaning.
- Use airtight containers: Transfer opened dry goods, such as rice, flour and cereal, into airtight, food-grade containers to protect from pests and moisture.
- Implement pest control: Seal entry points, use traps and regularly inspect storage areas to keep rodents and insects out.
Perishable food storage
Maintaining proper temperatures for perishable items is essential to prevent foodborne illnesses and spoilage. Here's how to handle perishable donations:
- Refrigeration: Keep refrigerators at 35 to 40° F to safely store items like dairy, meat and produce.
- Freezing: Maintain freezers at 0°F or below for frozen foods such as meats, vegetables and prepared meals.
- Temperature monitoring: Use a refrigerator thermometer to monitor and record temperatures daily to ensure compliance.
- Minimize handling: Train staff and volunteers to handle perishables minimally to reduce contamination risks and temperature exposure.
Other considerations for safety and accessibility
As demand increases, your organization may serve individuals who are new to your services. To ensure safety and accessibility for all, consider the following:
- Guidance for clients: Use barriers or signs to guide clients safely through the facility.
- Clear communication: Before opening, share plans such as pickup timing, arrival locations and other logistics via email, text and/or signs to avoid confusion.
- Crowd management: Prevent pushing or overcrowding by managing lines and high-traffic areas effectively.
- Accessibility: Ensure your facility is accessible to individuals with disabilities by providing ramps, wide doorways and clear signage.
By implementing these best practices, your organization can maximize the impact of donations, ensure food safety and create a welcoming environment for everyone in your community. Every effort counts when it comes to feeding those in need — together, we can make a difference.
