Non-perishable and unspoiled perishable food can be donated to local food banks, soup kitchens, and shelters. This fact sheet provides information and resources for donating food in Massachusetts.  Food recovery programs offer numerous benefits to businesses and communities. Specifically, they:

• Save businesses money otherwise spent on trash collection and disposal fees.
• Provide wholesome food to needy families in the community.
• Help communities and businesses meet state and local waste reduction goals.
• Create an improved public image for businesses.
• Provide tax benefits for donating businesses.

Donating food can be easy.  Local and national programs frequently offer free pick-up and provide reusable containers to donors.  Additionally, The Federal Bill Emerson Good Samaritan Food Donation Act makes it easier to donate by providing liability protection for those donating food. See the full law. 

Food Donation Resources in Massachusetts

Please note that reference to specific organizations does not necessarily reflect the views and policies of MassDEP, nor does the mention of names of organizations constitute endorsement or recommendation for use. 

Food Banks

There are four regional food banks in Massachusetts providing hunger relief programs. Food banks accept perishable and nonperishable food donations.  The food is distributed to a network of member feeding programs (including soup kitchens, food pantries and homeless shelters).  To find your regional food bank, visit America's Second Harvest.

Transport for Food Donations

Food Drive for the Hungry: American Red Cross of Massachusetts Bay (ARCMB) has collaborated with Project Bread/Walk for Hunger to provide a program to transport food that has been donated. Every day, Food Drive for the Hungry vans pick up and deliver surplus food from bakeries, food suppliers, farm stands and grocery stores, and deliver them to a network of more than 200 food pantries across the state.  Some food banks in Massachusetts do not provide programs to transport donated food – therefore this program fills the gap.  For more information, contact ARCMB at 617-375-0700. 

Other Food Banks, Kitchens, Shelters & Food Pantries

Please note that many organizations may accept direct food donations, as well.  To find a local organization in need: 

-Check your local Yellow Pages under "Food Banks,"  "Food Pantries" or "Shelters."  

-Contact the FoodSource Hotline at 1-800-645-8333.  Project Bread/The Walk for Hunger operates this service to provide up-to-date information about Massachusetts organizations in need of assistance.