in the kitchen
in the kitchen
by BRANDI GIVENS
RD, CPT
PICKLEBALL PLAYERS CAN GIVE THE GIFT OF FOOD
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Pickleball players are a special group of people. The social interaction our sport provides sparks a special sense of happiness, bringing us back to the courts again and again. And, as it turns out, research shows that happy people are generous people.
If you and your pickleball pals are feeling that warm sense of generosity this holiday season, consider teaming up to give one of humanity’ s most basic needs: food. Here are some ways your pickleball group can help feed those who might otherwise go hungry.
Ways to Donate Food
Club Collection for a Food Bank
If your club wants to donate food, consider collecting only what you would feed to your own families. People with food insecurity are often vulnerable to nutritionrelated diseases, which means that they would benefit most from healthy, nutrient-dense pantry staples.
It’ s also important to call your local food bank for suggestions before you begin collecting items. While the banks will likely accept most donations graciously, it’ s more helpful to give what they need the most.
Some shelf-stable suggestions include:
• Canned meats like tuna, sardines, salmon, beef, and chicken
• Low-sodium canned beans and vegetables
• Canned fruit packed in juice
• Peanut butter or other nut butters
• Dried beans, peas, and lentils
• Dried whole-grain foods like whole-wheat pasta, brown rice, plain oats, and quinoa
• Healthy snacks like whole-grain crackers, jerky, nuts, pumpkin seeds, and popcorn kernels
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