Inclusive Support: Why Food Bank Donations Should Include Autism-Friendly Options

Inclusive Support: Why Food Bank Donations Should Include Autism-Friendly Options

The holidays are known as the season of giving, a time when many people take the time to come together and provide food, support and resources to make sure families have what they need. Through individual efforts, food drives and donation bins, many communities gather food to disperse to those who need it. Many donations consist of canned goods, boxed meals and other simple non-perishable items - all very helpful and appreciated! But we wanted to take a moment to encourage a conversation around donating with neurodiversity in mind. 

Every donation matters, but there’s a reason why special consideration should be taken when it comes to providing inclusive items. Many autistic children (and adults) experience intense food sensitivities that strongly impact their lives. This may look like texture preferences, sensory discomfort, specific routines, and even allergies. This isn’t a child being a picky eater or preferring different foods - it’s a systemic response they have no control over. While no family is going to turn down food needed from a food bank, the food sensitivities common with autism means that some of those items will be difficult to use for the child. 

No family should have to choose between hunger and distress. Through education, consideration and intention, we hope to encourage those who are able to help make food donations more accessible and helpful to neurodivergent children and families. 

Why Food Sensitivities Matter

It’s important to reiterate again that the food sensitivities found in autistic children are not always the same as simply picky eating. They can relate to a variety of issues, including:

• Sensitivity to textures (soft, slimy, gritty, mashed, mixed - a few of the common sensitivities we see)

• Strong smell or taste aversions

• Preferences to brand or specific styles of foods. This is not about stubbornness - it’s about the predictability that so many children rely on. When something is different than expected or used to, it can upset their entire system.

• Children with autism are more likely to suffer from allergies, intolerances or reactions to certain ingredients such as dairy, gluten and certain preservatives. 

• Anxiety surrounding unfamiliarity along with an attachment to safe foods that help them stay regulated. 

The holidays are already a difficult time for many autistic children. Routines change and sensory overload is in full gear - having access to comfortable and familiar foods can make a huge difference in their overall well-being. 

Autism-Friendly Donation Ideas

Every child’s needs are different, but this is a good list of items to consider adding to your donation list:

• Plain pasta

• White rice

• Mac & Cheese

• Plain Cereals

• Peanut Butter

• Sunbutter

• Shelf-stable milk alternatives (soy, oat, lactose-free)

• Beans

• Chicken Broth

• Applesauce cups or pouches

• Crackers, pretzels, Goldfish crackers

• Fruit cups in water

• Veggie Straws

• Gluten-free pasta, bread and snacks

• Dairy-free mac and cheese, pudding, snacks

• Dye-free fruit snacks

• Allergen-friendly granola bars or cookies

If you know someone in your life who has an autistic child, consider chatting with them about their child’s food sensitivities, safe foods and needs. This may give some stronger insight into what would make the most impactful donations. If you’re interested in donating more than just food to help benefit the neurodiverse population, consider donating:

• Sensory-friendly fidget toys

• Chewable jewelry

• Silicone utensils and divided plates

• Weighted lap pads or blankets

• Noise-reducing headphones

• Unscented hygiene products 

An Inclusive Season of Giving

Food drives and donations are an integral part of taking care of our community, providing support and a hand up to those who are struggling. They are more effective, though, if they reflect the real needs across all households and demographics. By donating with intention, we are acknowledging that not all families eat the same, comfort foods matter, and neurodivergent kids deserve choice and safety with their meals. 

At Bloom Behavioral Healthcare LLC, we strive every day to support autistic children to help both them and their families thrive. If you are looking for guidance, resources or support on your family’s journey with autism, we’d love to chat! Please don’t hesitate to reach out with any questions or to find out if ABA therapy could be beneficial for your child.