08/13/2026
Donating non-perishable and unspoiled perishable food is a great way to support local food banks, soup kitchens, pantries, and shelters while keeping good food out of the landfill.
Restaurants, commercial kitchens, institutions, farmers, and gleaners can all play an important role in helping get nutritious food to people who need it. Perishable food donations require timely coordination and proper handling, but when done safely, they can make a meaningful difference in our communities.
It’s a win-win: people get access to nutritious food, and perfectly good food stays out of the landfill. Food donation is one of the most important ways we can reduce food waste and divert valuable resources from the trash.
The Bennington County Solid Waste Alliance has compiled a list of local food pantries and shelters to help connect good food with people who need it. Find local food pantries and shelters here: https://bcswa.org/diverting-food-scraps-organics/donating-food-pantries/
Always contact the food pantry before making a donation, especially when donating perishable food, to make sure they can accept it and have the proper storage available to keep it fresh and safe.