SEATTLE, November 4, 2024 – As the season of giving approaches, the American Heart Association, celebrating 100 years of lifesaving science, is encouraging Washingtonians to donate heart healthier items to local food banks and pantries this holiday season. More than one in 10 households in Washington face food insecurity[1] and to fill the gap, many families turn to food banks and pantries to address this basic need. Ensuring the shelves are stocked with high nutrition and culturally relevant items enables everyone to maintain health goals while celebrating the season.
For food drive organizers, the Association challenges companies and community groups to prioritize the collection of healthier and culturally relevant options over items with low or no nutritional value. To assist this effort, the American Heart Association has developed a toolkit with step-by-step guidance on hosting a healthy and effective collection event. The project is supported by Delta Dental of Washington and Radiant. Included within the toolkit:
- Statistical information about hunger in Washington which can be used to help illustrate the need for donors
- An interactive map that lists all food access organizations in Washington to help locate a recipient organization
- A list of questions to ask the food bank or pantry to identify items that can be accepted and are in most need
- Suggestions on healthier food choices like low or no sugar added fruit or applesauce, low and no sodium canned soup or vegetables, whole grain products like brown rice and oatmeal, and proteins like peanut butter and canned meat.
- Newsletter and social media content to help promote the food collection event
- Tips for the day of your collection event and recapping the effort for donors
“Often with a little reflection and preparation, food drive organizers can significantly increase the impact they can have toward their goal of supporting neighbors in need,” said Elena O'Callahan, RDN, community impact manager, nutrition, American Heart Association, Washington. “Turkey and mashed potatoes are not holiday staples in every community. Asking hunger relief organizations which items are familiar, relevant and desired by the communities they serve, allows you to guide donors to meet the need for more culturally appropriate foods.”
Food access organizations have a year-round need for healthier items and holiday food drives can fill the shelves for holiday tables and beyond. Cash donations often have the greatest impact because they enable organizations to buy in bulk and take advantage of offers made directly by vendors. “Consider including a cash option for donors during your food drive,” shared O'Callahan. “It helps food banks and pantries be nimble and purchase items not received through other donations.”
A diet that is impacted by social drivers of health such as lack of consistent access to nutritious foods can contribute to negative health outcomes, like chronic disease, tooth decay and poor mental health. “Ensuring all communities have affordable and convenient access to the foods that contribute to total health, which includes oral health, is critical,” said Diane Oakes, chief mission officer, Delta Dental of Washington. “Eating healthier meals is easier when we have nutritious and recognizable foods to prepare. Companies can play an important role in supporting the entire community by promoting culturally relevant and healthy food pantry donations.”
To learn more about the American Heart Association’s work to address nutrition insecurity in the Puget Sound, visit heart.org/Washington.
Resources:
- Toolkit: Heart Healthy Food Drives
- News release: 10 features of a heart healthy eating pattern
- heart.org article: Dietary Recommendations for Healthy Children
- Infographic: Heart-Healthy Essentials for Meal Prep
- Read in Spanish
- Read in Korean
###
About the American Heart Association
The American Heart Association is a relentless force for a world of longer, healthier lives. We are dedicated to ensuring equitable health in all communities. Through collaboration with numerous organizations, and powered by millions of volunteers, we fund innovative research, advocate for the public’s health and share lifesaving resources. The Dallas-based organization has been a leading source of health information for a century. During 2024 - our Centennial year - we celebrate our rich 100-year history and accomplishments. As we forge ahead into our second century of bold discovery and impact our vision is to advance health and hope for everyone, everywhere. Connect with us on heart.org, Facebook, X or by calling 1-800-AHA-USA1. In Washington, visit heart.org/Washington, or follow us on Facebook, Instagram or X.
For Media Inquiries:
Valerie Koch: valerie.koch@heart.org
Francesca Minas: francesca.minas@heart.org
heart.org and stroke.org
For Public Inquiries: 1-800-AHA-USA1 (242-8721)