#freefoodpantry

Housed folks tend to commit a lot of microaggressions against unhoused folks when it comes to sharing food.

Well-intentioned Seattleites who want to share food to Free Food Pantries & more directly, here's some guidelines I use.

What else?

1. If the packaging isn't waterproof, don't do it. This could be a box of raisins from a multi-pack. If it's not in cellophane, get it into a waterproof container, even a zip loc.

#freefoodpantry #mutualaid

2. Will it bruise or smash into food remnant easily if put at the bottom of a bag? Bananas, soft cookies, muffins, breads, etc.

These are best for on-the-spot eating, like if you're setting up a table where folks can grab something and eat it right there.

#freefoodpantry

3. Check the expiration date. Never donate expired food.

#freefoodpantry #MutualAid

4. While folks need food who have access to refrigeration & cooking facilities, I don't assume that access. Shelf stable & no cook options will help the most people. I avoid assuming access to hot water. If it's a can, does it have a pull tab?

#freefoodpantry #MutualAid

5. While bulk waxed paper packets (ex. instant oatmeal) are technically waterproof, i encourage you to see what packets look like after absorbing outside moisture. Whether they are still safe to use, they definitely don't look or feel like it. Ziploc bag, minimum. #freefoodpantry

These are my observations from a few weeks of trying to shield folks from various #freefoodpantry microaggressions.

Would love to see similar s on pop-up hot water stations for serving instant food that needs hot water, & bad asses serving pre-prepared hot food at encampments.

y'all done a #skillshare thread on your hot meal prep and serving skills, @FreeFoodUD?