The holiday season is a great time to give back to the community.

One easy way to help out is by donating to food banks and pantries. But sometimes, what we may think is helping is not necessarily the best way to provide support.

Here are some common myths about donating and volunteering with food banks and pantries − and whether or not they should be believed, according to representatives from local organizations.

1. Canned goods are the best thing to donate

While canned goods are important, many food banks and pantries accept other foods as well. Single-serve items, meal kits and items that don’t require cooking are especially needed by food pantries that are relied upon by people without housing, like St. Patrick’s Center in Wilmington.

2. Only non-perishable food items are accepted

The Food Bank of Delaware accepts fresh produce, so long as the donor or grower takes proper food safety precautions. More information about donating surplus fruits and vegetables is available on the food bank’s website, but one message is key: “Don’t donate produce you wouldn’t buy or feed to your family.”

3. Food found while cleaning out your pantry makes a good donation

Unopened packaged food can make a great donation.

However, it’s important to check that the food is not expired − if you can’t eat it, neither can someone else!

4. Food drives are the best way to support local food banks and pantries

Although food drives are great for collecting items to donate, buying extra food to give away is less efficient than simply donating the same amount of money to a local organization. Because food banks and pantries have access to otherwise wasted food or food at bulk rates, they can purchase at least twice as much food with the same amount of money.

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5. The holiday season is the best time to give back

It’s true that many people rely on giveaways like the Food Bank of Delaware’s turkey distribution for their holiday meals, especially in recent years. But hunger does not stop after Christmas, and food banks and pantries need support year-round. Whether it’s by donating money and food or signing up to volunteer, there are always ways to give back.

6. Food and money are the only possible donations

Food pantries are often only part of the services that many organizations provide. For example, St. Patrick’s Center in Wilmington offers clothes to those in need and is looking for donations of gently used coats and cold weather gear heading into the winter months.

Others are seeking donors for holiday-specific giveaways that don’t involve food. West End Neighborhood House is hosting its annual Adopt-a-Family program, which matches sponsors with families in need to provide them with gifts for their children. The organization is still seeking sponsors for this year.

7. Donating to a food bank or pantry in the past means you can’t use their services

Financial situations change, and suddenly someone who donated in the past can no longer afford to put food on their own table. That’s OK. Food banks and pantries are open to anyone in need, even those who have previously donated or who have never needed help putting food on the table in the past.

Food bank and pantry leaders remind everyone that there is no shame in asking for help − it’s what they’re there for.

Send story tips or ideas to Hannah Edelman at [email protected]. For more reporting, follow them on X at @h_edelman.