Whitehall-Coplay Hunger Initiative’s next free community meal is set for 4-6:30 p.m. Dec. 21 at St. John’s Evangelical Lutheran Church, 835 Third St., Whitehall (610-533-1357). Meals are guaranteed for the first 100 guests. Sometimes, the meals are totally distributed by 6 p.m., and the church closes.

At the old school building on Third Street, south of Grape Street, turn on Quarry Street and turn right into the parking lot. Follow to the alley, turn right, and stop at the church door by the ramp to receive your meal.

I took some of the information below from a 2018 Taste of Home article, tinyurl.com/2p89mbep, about items to donate to your local food pantry. Canned food will last at least five years past its best-buy date and dry goods, up to two or three years.

Second Harvest Food Bank provides most of the below items to its member food pantries. Second Harvest and WCHI are providing healthy foods as much as possible.

• Applesauce: Plastic jars of unsweetened applesauce provide a quick snack, fiber and vitamin C.

• Canned beans: Loaded with protein and fiber, canned beans provide an excellent, nutritious way to fill a hungry tummy. Opt for the low-sodium varieties whenever possible.

• Canned chicken: It’s simple to toss this nonperishable item into soups and casseroles or add it to a sandwich or cracker. Its versatility and high protein content make it a popular item.

• Canned fish (tuna and salmon): Canned fish has vitamins, omega-3 fatty acids and protein, and it makes for a quick and easy meal.

• Canned meat (SPAM and ham): It is shelf stable, doesn’t require much prep or equipment to eat and delivers a quick hit of protein to keep individuals feeling full longer.

• Canned vegetables: Colorful, nutrient-dense and fiber-rich vegetables are always in high demand, and canned varieties last the longest on a food pantry’s shelves. Look for low-sodium options.

• Fruit: Whether dried, canned or in plastic cups, fruit makes an excellent snack and provides some nutrition and fiber. Choose ones packed in water or fruit juice rather than sugary syrups.

• Instant mashed potatoes: These last longer and require minimal tools and ingredients to whip up. They’re also a favorite of every age group, making them a popular item.

• Pasta: Whole-grain pastas offer more fiber and nutrition than white pasta and are easy to turn into a meal.

• Peanut butter: Kids and adults like it, and it’s high in protein. Look for varieties that are lower in sugar.

• Rice: It’s filling, versatile and easy to prepare and store. Use brown rice when possible because it provides more fiber.

• Shelf-stable and powdered milk: No refrigeration is required to keep this milk fresh. It provides much-needed calcium and protein.

• Soup, stew and chili: These canned or packaged items act as a warm and filling lunch or dinner and often come complete with protein and veggies. If possible, try to find reduced-sodium options.

• Whole-grain cereal: Here’s another popular item with all ages since whole-grain cereal makes a healthy breakfast or snack. Select varieties that are low in sugar and high in fiber.

WCHI can always use instant mashed potatoes and canned soup. Please ship or drop off your donations at my Re/Max Unlimited office, 1080 Schadt Ave., Whitehall, 18052.

Have a great week, and happy holidays!