Enjoying sweet treats as part of the fall and winter holidays is something we all take part in, including our clients. It’s a wonderful way to celebrate the special days of the season. But because candy is easily accessible and has little to no nutritional value, it’s not a highly desired food item for the people who attend our food distributions.

From November through January, many of our supporters want to donate their leftover holiday candy. While we truly appreciate the sentiment of giving, there are so many other great ways to fill our clients’ plates. As we stay committed to supporting the well-being of our clients, we respectfully ask that you please do not give us candy.

Extensive research shows that food insecurity and poor health intersect. Prioritizing nutritious foods supports the health and well-being of our clients, helping prevent – as well as manage – diet-related conditions that are highly prevalent in the communities we serve.

Instead of giving candy, we encourage you to support our mission of ending hunger in our community by donating, volunteering, starting a virtual food drive, or bringing walk-in food donations of some of our most needed foods to one of our facilities. We welcome you to learn more about Second Harvest’s Nutrition Policy y commitment to nutrition at Second Harvest.