We’re launching a new monthly series highlighting our Donation Need of the Month — specific items where community support can make an immediate impact. This month’s featured need is items to support our Homeless Outreach Service Team (HOST) bags.

Why Donation Need of the Month?

This comes in response to recent USDA cuts that removed $500 million in funding food banks across the country had been counting on to help feed millions of families. As a result, food purchasing costs continue to rise while funding becomes more limited, making it increasingly difficult for us to purchase and keep essential items stocked. Because of this, we’re asking for extra community support for items that are becoming harder to maintain in our inventory.

Whether you grab a couple extra items during your next grocery trip or use our Drive Toolkit to host a donation drive, every contribution makes a difference — and we are so incredibly grateful for the support.

What Are HOST Bags?

HOST Bags are distributed in partnership with Washington County Community Services’ Homeless Outreach Services Team. These bags provide quick, accessible support to community members experiencing homelessness.

Each bag contains shelf-stable, ready-to-eat foods designed for individuals who may not have access to kitchens, refrigeration, or cooking equipment. The focus is on items that are nutritious, portable, and easy to consume on the go.

Some of our most-needed HOST bag items include:

• Shelf-stable turkey sticks, beef sticks, or cheese sticks
• Fruit cups
• Whole grain crackers
• Nutrition bars

While these items may seem simple, they can provide comfort, nourishment, and support to someone navigating an incredibly difficult situation.

Interested in Helping?

You can find our Drive Toolkit here, which includes a donation drive poster and resources to help you organize a collection at your workplace, school, or community group.

Or, if hosting a drive isn’t the right fit, simply donating a few items during your next grocery trip makes a meaningful difference, too. Every single item donated helps us stock HOST bags and support those who are unhoused.

Thank you for helping us ensure everyone has access to food and care — one bag at a time.

Question? Contact Debbie Kanda, Donor Relations Manager, at [email protected] or 651-342-5569.