Donate Food
Help us nourish our community! Every donation—big or small—makes a difference. To ensure the health and safety of the individuals and families we serve, please follow the guidelines below when donating food.
Accepted Donations
We gladly accept fresh, frozen, and shelf-stable food items. All donations must be unopened, unexpired, and include an ingredient label. Unfortunately, we are unable to accept homemade or used items. See Guidelines below.
We also welcome garden produce and fresh eggs.
Our recipients have a wide range of cooking skills and access to different types of cooking facilities. Nutritious items are always appreciated, as are foods that can be eaten quickly or require minimal preparation. If you would enjoy it, chances are our recipients would too!
Non-Perishable Pantry Staples (No glass jars, please!)
-
Canned proteins (tuna, chicken, salmon)
-
Peanut butter and other nut butters
-
Canned soups, stews, chili
-
Canned fruits
-
Pasta and rice
-
Boxed macaroni & cheese
-
Instant mashed potatoes
-
Breakfast cereal and oatmeal
-
Shelf-stable milk or plant-based milk
-
Canned tomato sauce, diced tomatoes, pasta sauce
-
Baby formula and baby food (within expiration dates)
Meal Helpers & Snacks
-
Pasta meals, rice mixes, stuffing
-
Granola bars, protein bars
-
Crackers, trail mix, raisins
-
Spices and seasonings
-
Cooking oil and flour
We gladly accept fresh fruits and vegetables to help our clients access more nutritious foods. Donations from home gardens, local farms, and grocery stores are always welcome!
Most-Requested Fresh Produce:
-
Apples, oranges, bananas
-
Potatoes, onions, carrots
-
Lettuce, spinach, kale
-
Tomatoes, cucumbers, bell peppers
-
Zucchini, squash, green beans
-
Citrus fruits
-
Seasonal items welcome!
-
Fresh and clean
-
Free of mold or rot
-
Bagged or boxed for safe transport

Guidelines
Donation Guidelines & Legal Requirements
For the safety of our clients and in compliance with food safety standards, all food donations must meet the following criteria:
-
Unexpired: All items must be within the printed expiration, “best by,” or “use by” dates.
-
Unopened: We cannot accept partially used or opened food packages.
-
Original packaging only: Items must be in their original containers with manufacturer’s seals intact.
-
Labeled: All items must have clear ingredient labels and nutrition information.
-
No home-canned or homemade items: Due to health regulations, we are unable to accept food prepared in home kitchens.
-
No alcohol or no alcohol infused items
Have Questions?
If you're unsure whether your food items are suitable for donation, feel free to contact us or call us at (775) 782-3711.
Thank You for Supporting Our Mission!
Your generosity ensures we can continue providing essential food resources to individuals and families facing food insecurity, while upholding dignity, health, and hope in our community.
Need a Tax Receipt?
All donations are tax-deductible. A receipt will be available when you drop off your items.
Hours & Location
Your generosity helps us provide essential food and resources to neighbors facing food insecurity. Whether you’re dropping off a few items or organizing a large donation, we’re here to help make the process easy and meaningful.
Donation Hours
Volunteers are on-site during the following hours to assist with unloading and to provide a tax receipt upon request:
• Monday: 9:00 AM – 4:00 PM
• Tuesday: 9:00 AM – 4:00 PM
• Wednesday: 9:00 AM – 4:00 PM
• Thursday: Closed
• Friday: 9:00 AM – 3:00 PM
• Saturday & Sunday: Closed
Drop-Off Location
Carson Valley Community Food Closet
1251 Waterloo Lane
Gardnerville, NV 89410
Drop-off Instructions:
Please bring donations to the left side of the building, near the garage door. Just pull around and a volunteer will be there to assist you!
Planning a Special or Large Donation?
For large donations, special items, or drop-offs outside of regular hours, please contact us in advance to arrange a date and time. We're happy to work with you to ensure a smooth donation experience.
.png)