In-kind donations play an important role in supporting Meals For The Elderly beyond daily meal delivery. These items help us care for the whole person, especially our seniors who often live on fixed incomes and have limited access to everyday necessities.
Your generosity allows us to stretch our resources further and meet needs that go beyond food.
Birthday Bag Items (Year-Round Need)
Each month, our volunteers deliver birthday bags to our recipients as a small but meaningful reminder that they are remembered and celebrated. The following items are always appreciated:
- Bar Soap
- Combs & Brushes
- Diabetic Socks
- Handkerchiefs
- Large Number Calculators
- Pencils
- Plug-in night lights
- Magnifying glasses
- Reading glasses ("readers" or "cheaters") - all strengths
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Toothpaste/Toothbrush
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Travel-size toiletries - shampoo, conditioner, lotion, deodorant, aftershave, soap
Optional:
- Candy/Sugar Free Candy
- Chapstick
- Gloves, Scarves, & Hats (seasonal)
- Lap Blankets (seasonal)
- Small Puzzle Books
- Slipper Socks
- Tissues
- Travel-Size Hand Sanitizer
We also reuse the front of old birthday or holiday cards, which are taped onto each birthday bag to add a personal touch. Card fronts only, please.
***We always seem to run short on men's items.
Seasonal Item Drives
Throughout the year, we host targeted drives to meet seasonal needs:
Winter Drives
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Space heaters
Spring Drives
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Box fans
These items help our seniors stay safe and comfortable in their homes as temperatures change.
High-Need Items
We regularly distribute and use the following items to support our recipients’ daily living:
-
Pet food (not expired)
-
Adult incontinence products (Depends or similar)
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Nutritional drinks (Ensure, Boost, or Glucerna)
How to Donate
In-kind donations can be dropped off at our facility during business hours. For large donations or to coordinate a drive, we encourage you to contact us in advance so we can plan accordingly.
Every item you give helps us serve with dignity, compassion, and care.
Thank you for being part of our mission and helping us continue to deliver more than meals.
