Donate

Your donations help feed families in need and bring us closer to breaking the world record for the largest student-led food drive.

Most Needed Items

High Need

Protein

  • Canned tuna and chicken
  • Peanut butter
  • Canned or dry beans
  • Nuts and seeds
Needed

Grains

  • Rice
  • Pasta
  • Cereal
  • Oatmeal
  • Crackers
High Need

Fruits & Vegetables

  • Canned fruits (in juice, not syrup)
  • Canned vegetables (low sodium)
  • Tomato sauce
  • Dried fruits
Needed

Dairy & Alternatives

  • Shelf-stable milk
  • Powdered milk
  • Evaporated milk
  • Shelf-stable milk alternatives
Urgent Need

Baby Items

  • Formula
  • Baby food
  • Diapers
  • Baby wipes
Needed

Personal Care

  • Toilet paper
  • Soap
  • Shampoo
  • Toothpaste
  • Feminine hygiene products

Important Donation Guidelines

  • Check expiration dates (items should not be expired)
  • Please avoid glass containers when possible
  • No homemade or opened items
  • No damaged or dented cans

Drop-off Locations

NCSSM Main Lobby

1219 Broad Street, Durham, NC

Monday-Friday, 8am-6pm

View on Map

Student Center

East Campus, Room 120

Daily, 10am-10pm

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LocalMart - North Durham

4500 Hope Valley Rd, Durham, NC

Daily, 7am-10pm

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Community Bank - Downtown

212 Main Street, Durham, NC

Monday-Friday, 9am-5pm

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Triangle Tech Solutions

789 Innovation Way, Research Triangle Park, NC

Monday-Friday, 8am-5pm

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Downtown Bakery

301 Foster Street, Durham, NC

Tuesday-Sunday, 7am-4pm

View on Map

Grocery Store Partners

Our partner grocery stores make it easy to donate. Just look for the NCSSM Food Drive collection bins near the exits or ask about pre-packaged donation bags you can purchase.

LocalMart

Collection points at all locations, 10% match on all food donations

FreshMarket

Pre-packaged donation bags available for purchase ($10, $15, or $25)

Community Grocery

Double loyalty points when you donate items from our needs list

Amazon Wishlist

Can't make it to a drop-off location? You can donate items directly through our Amazon Wishlist. Items will be shipped directly to our distribution center.

View Amazon Wishlist

Financial Donations

Monetary donations help our partner food banks purchase items in bulk at reduced prices. Every $1 donated can provide up to 4 meals for those in need.

Make a Donation

$

All donations are processed securely through our partner organization, Durham Food Bank, a registered 501(c)(3) nonprofit.

Frequently Asked Questions

What items can I donate?

We accept non-perishable food items and personal care products. Please check our most needed items list for current priorities. All items should be unopened, unexpired, and in good condition.

Can I donate money instead of food?

Yes! While we primarily collect food items, monetary donations to our partner food banks help them purchase items in bulk at reduced prices. Please use the donation link to contribute financially.

How do I organize a food drive at my school or workplace?

We would love to help you set up your own collection! Contact our outreach team at [email protected], and we will provide collection boxes, promotional materials, and pickup services when your drive is complete.

Do you accept expired food?

For safety reasons, we cannot accept expired food items. Please check expiration dates before donating.

Can I get a tax receipt for my donation?

Yes, for large donations (valued at $250 or more), we can provide a receipt for tax purposes. Please complete the donation form when you drop off your items.

Ready to Make a Difference?

Whether you donate food, volunteer your time, or spread the word, your support brings us closer to our goal.