Want to Help at Food-a-Bago? Here’s What Food Pantries Desperately Need

If you’ve ever wanted to donate to a food pantry but weren’t sure what to buy, you’re not alone. Most people mean well when they fill a grocery bag for a food drive, but some items are far more useful than others. As Food-a-Bago returns to help stock the shelves of Broome County CHOW, we’re breaking down what pantries really need and how you can make the biggest impact.

We’ll be collecting donations for CHOW outside Weis Markets at 1290 Upper Front Street in Binghamton from Monday, November 3 to Monday, November 10. Our team will be parked in the Oliver's Camper, powered by NYSEG and 21st Century Pools and Spas on the Vestal Parkway, which is also accepting donations during business donations. Collection hours are 7 a.m. to 6 p.m. on weekdays, 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. on the weekend, and until 6 p.m. on closing day.

Everything collected stays right here in Broome County, helping CHOW feed local families through the holidays and beyond.

Protein Packed Foods Make the Biggest Difference

If you’re shopping to donate, start with protein. It’s the hardest thing for food pantries to keep in stock and one of the most valuable. Canned tuna, chicken, salmon, beans, peanut butter, chili, and stew are always high on the list. These items are shelf-stable, versatile, and filling. They can easily become the centerpiece of a meal for a family who might not have access to fresh meat. If you can, choose pop-top cans, they make life easier for people without can openers or full kitchens.

Everyday basics stretch food budgets the furthest. Think pasta, rice, boxed potatoes, pasta sauce, mac and cheese, and instant meals. These are the comfort foods families rely on most. Even something as simple as a box of pasta and a jar of sauce can feed a family more than once. Add in ramen noodles, rice mixes, or canned pasta, and you’ve given someone several nights’ worth of dinners.

Breakfast Foods Bring Comfort and a Strong Start to the Day

Breakfast often gets overlooked, but it’s one of the hardest meals for families on tight budgets. Donations like cereal, oatmeal, pancake mix, syrup, and granola bars are always appreciated. These are easy, kid-friendly options that help families start the day with something filling and comforting.

Canned Produce and Soups Help Families Through the Cold Months

Fresh produce doesn’t last long in food drives, but canned fruits and vegetables are a close second. Look for low-sodium veggies and fruit packed in juice or water instead of syrup. And with cold weather setting in, soups, stews, and broths are in high demand. Hearty soups, canned chili, and vegetable soups are especially helpful for those who may not have many cooking tools.

Pantry Staples and Special Diet Items Make a Big Impact

Food pantries can always use cooking staples like flour, sugar, salt, and cooking oil, along with condiments, spices, and coffee or tea. These “extras” might seem small, but they turn basic ingredients into complete meals. And for those with dietary needs, low-sodium, gluten-free, and sugar-free items are always in short supply but deeply appreciated.

How You Can Help at Food-a-Bago

This year, when you’re out grocery shopping, grab a few of these items and bring them to Food-a-Bago. You can drop them off at our Oliver's Camper outside Weis Markets at 1290 Upper Front Street or at 21st Century Pools and Spas on the Vestal Parkway. If you don’t have time to shop, cash and checks made payable to Music for the Mission go a long way. CHOW can use those funds to buy exactly what’s needed most and often at discounted, bulk prices. You can also make a secure donation here:

Giving Feeds More Than Just Stomachs

When you donate, you’re not just giving food, you’re giving peace of mind, hope, and dignity to a neighbor who might be struggling. Whether it’s a can of soup or a full grocery bag, every single donation makes a difference.

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So next time you’re in the store, grab an extra item or two and think about who might be sitting down to dinner because of it. Together, Broome County can fill the camper and fill a whole lot of hearts.