It’s that magical time of year again! Lights are twinkling, seasonal drinks are back, and shopping deals are popping up everywhere. Many of us are lucky enough to enjoy delicious meals and festive treats with family and friends. Despite the risks of seasonal blues and material overload, this season is often filled with joy and gratitude.
However, not everyone shares in this abundance. Many people face genuine hardships during the holidays, and the urge to help is strong. If you’re anything like me, you’ve probably noticed holiday food drives cropping up in your community—at schools, places of worship, and local banks. It’s as simple as tossing some canned goods into a collection bin and feeling good about lending a hand. But is that really the best way to contribute?
Let’s be real: the items that often make their way into those bins tend to be the forgotten products from our pantries—like that can of condensed milk or the mushroom soup that nobody wants. While food donations are certainly appreciated, they might not provide the nutritious meals that families really need.
According to Emma Rivers, director of the Sunnyvale Food Bank in California, cash donations can have a far greater impact. “For every dollar we receive, we can provide six dollars’ worth of food,” she explains. Food banks can purchase in bulk at significantly lower costs, which means your donation stretches much further. As highlighted by Sara Bell from the Center for High Impact Philanthropy, a mere $10 could buy far more food through their networks than if you purchased a few cans yourself. “That $10 can actually feed a family of four for an entire week,” she notes.
With that in mind, it’s clear that donating cash is often a more effective way to make a difference. Yes, sending a check might feel less personal than dropping off a bag of food, but if your goal is to help as many people as possible, clicking that “Donate Now” button is the way to go.
I’m not suggesting you stop contributing food altogether—especially if a cash donation isn’t feasible for you right now. Involving kids in picking out food for drives can be a great teaching moment about generosity. It helps them understand that many families are struggling and encourages compassion. Plus, it’s a fun and engaging way for them to feel connected to the act of giving. Let your children choose their favorite cereals or pasta shapes for others to enjoy, and you’ll all feel a warm glow from this act of kindness.
Feeling generous has its perks! Studies show that helping others can lead to a “helper’s high,” boosting our mood and even improving health outcomes like lowering blood pressure and combating depression. Food banks appreciate every contribution, which is why they won’t turn down food drives. But remember, if you want to make a real impact, consider giving directly to local food banks or organizations that feed hungry families.
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To sum it up, this holiday season, if you want to make a meaningful difference, donating money is often more beneficial than giving canned food. While both contributions are valuable, your cash can go much further in providing food for those in need.
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