HONOLULU (KHON2) -- For those looking to make a difference in their community, donating to food banks is a powerful way to help. KHON2.com was able to catch up with Brandi Saragosa, Director of Operations at the Maui Food Bank, to find out her insights into what foods are most needed and what items donors should avoid. Get Hawaii's latest morning news delivered to your inbox, sign up for News 2 You Saragosa’s passion for the mission of the Maui Food Bank has grown over the years. She began as a volunteer driver and is now leading the organization in its efforts to combat hunger across the island. “I think it all starts with trying new things. So that’s why there’s volunteer opportunities,” Saragosa said. Her journey from volunteer to director is a testament to the power of community connection and purpose. “When you’re connected with an organization that has a mission, there’s alignment. It’s more than just a job—you’re working toward a mission, an assignment for your life.” With hunger affecting families on Oʻahu, Maui, Kauaʻi, Lānaʻi, Molokaʻi and Hawaiʻi Island, Hawaiʻi's food banks serve as vital resources for local families. However, Saragosa emphasized the importance of thoughtful donations to meet the real needs of the community. “Some of our top items are listed on our website,” Saragosa noted. What foods are needed most? Canned protein items are always in high demand. "We don’t get a lot of canned goods like Spam, Vienna sausages or corned beef; and those are pretty pricey right now," Saragosa said. "When we do get them in, they go out of our warehouse really quickly.” She pointed out that anything in a can that provides a meal, such as chili or stew, is invaluable for families facing hunger. Additionally, the Hawaiʻi's food banks don’t just rely on shelf-stable products. "At Maui Food Bank, we actually distributed more than 2.7 million pounds of fresh produce in the last 14 months,” Saragosa said. She highlighted the growing demand for fresh foods like vegetables and fruits. “Produce has been high on everyone’s needs list," she continued. "And the growing need for eggs and milk is leaving many families without basic staples." Saragosa encouraged donors to consider the logistical challenges families face. For instance, she shared that boxed macaroni and cheese is a common donation; but without milk, families may not be able to make the meal. “When you donate things like macaroni and cheese, please be mindful to donate things like milk,” Saragosa explained. “We are just a supplement. We’re providing things families can use without needing extra items. So, shelf stable things like milks are really needed.” Why shelf-stable items matter For those looking to donate items that don’t require refrigeration, Saragosa recommended shelf-stable milk as an excellent choice. “Shelf-stable milk can last a long time, and it’s still very good. We buy those, too; and when we get them in, it offsets the costs,” she explained. “It’s a great option for those who may not have access to fresh milk.” Alongside milk, items like granola bars, cup noodles and microwaveable meals are especially helpful. “We’re about to come up on fall break, and some kids will be home. So, we have our youth centers coming in for things like granola bars which are easy for kids to eat without needing an adult to prepare them,” Saragosa said. What to avoid donating Not all food donations are helpful. Saragosa stressed that donors should avoid items that require complex preparation or perishables that can't be properly stored. “We want to make sure that we can distribute food quickly without worrying about refrigeration or preparation,” Saragosa said. "Non-food items, like toiletries, should be separated from edible goods and stored correctly.” In addition to food, Saragosa noted that non-food items such as hygiene products or cleaning supplies can also be beneficial. However, these should always be kept in separate boxes and clearly labeled. A heartfelt mission For Saragosa, the work goes beyond the food. It’s about creating opportunities for people to connect, both with the food bank and with the broader community. “It’s really about finding your niche and making a real difference,” she said. “People come together for a common cause, and that’s what makes it all worth it.” As Hawaiʻi's food banks continue to serve the community, thoughtful donations can help ensure that families in need receive nutritious, easy-to-prepare meals, especially during this stressful holiday season. “We’ve been working with local farmers to buy eggs, milk, and produce so families can make concrete meals,” Saragosa said. “These are the kinds of items that really help.” What should you donate? Here’s a simple list of suggested donations which you can bring to food banks. You can click here for more information on details regarding donations and how. Top donations for Hawaiʻi's food banks: Canned protein Spam, Vienna Sausages, Corned Beef, Chili, Stews. Fresh produce Vegetables and fruits (especially those that are easy to store and use quickly). Eggs and milk Refrigerated eggs. Shelf-stable milk (including evaporated milk and non-dairy milk). Convenient meals Cup noodles, microwavable meals, canned pasta. Snack items for keiki Granola bars, easy-to-prepare foods for children during breaks. You can click here to learn more about the Maui Food Bank, including Lānaʻi and Molokaʻi. You can click here to learn more about the Oʻahu Food Bank. You can click here to learn more about the Kauaʻi Food Bank. You can click here to learn more about the Hawaiʻi Island Food Bank. Get news on the go with KHON 2GO, KHON's morning podcast, every morning at 8 Donating to food banks like the Maui Food Bank helps create a safety net for those in need. With the right items, you can make sure that those struggling have the chance to nourish themselves and their families.