In the face of horrific bushfires that have devastated communities and left hundreds without homes, many Australians are looking for ways they can help, from opening their wallets to dropping off food and goods.

For those wanting to lend a hand, financial donations have the greatest impact, says Foodbank Australia CEO Brianna Casey.

“Financial donations are critically important. As Foodbank Australia has such incredible partnerships right throughout the supply chain from farmers to manufacturers, to the food and grocery industry as well, we are able to turn every dollar you donate into two meals. We can turn $1 into $6 worth of food and groceries,” she said.

However, despite earlier reports suggesting that physical donations are no longer required, Foodbank Australia has continued its call-out for food and grocery items, saying donations are still urgently needed, with many household items in high demand.

“There is a really particular list of items we need you to bring along – and in particular – some items we don’t need you to bring along. Space is at a premium at the moment, we’re trying to get all these products into the communities, we need the right products coming through, so keep up the enthusiasm but please do it in a structured way,” Casey said.

Here’s what Foodbank Australia has identified as the most in-demand items.

What to donate
– Bottled water
– UHT milk
– Breakfast cereals
– Good quality tinned foods and meals (with ring pulls)
– Pantry staples like pasta, rice and noodles
– Grab-and-go foods like muesli bars
– Pet food
– Personal care items like toothpaste, toothbrushes, shampoo, conditioner and sanitary items

What not to donate
– Fresh fruit and vegetables
– Razors
– Medicine
– Alcohol
– Bedding
– Clothing, old or new

Where to drop off
Food and grocery items can be dropped off at one of Foodbank Australia’s state warehouses. For the locations, opening hours and contact information of each warehouse, click here. For updates on donations, follow Foodbank Australia on Facebook.