Food for Fines
Need to take care of some fines? Donate non-perishable food items instead of paying. It's a great way to help the hungry in our community--and you can save money, too!
Make a difference
Last year, Charlotte County library patrons donated 23,246 food items, and we waived $22,083.37 in fines.
This means over 1,000 additional items were donated even when not needed to pay fines. Thank you for your generosity!
23,246 items donated
$22,083.37 fines waived
How it works
Bring non-expired, non-perishable canned goods, dry food, and toiletry items to the front desk and let us know you have fines to satisfy. You will be credited $1 for each food item you donate.
Food for Fines can be used to pay overdue fines and fees for any lost or damaged Charlotte County materials. Food cannot be accepted for non-resident cards, printing fees, or charges for lost or damaged electronic devices or interlibrary loan items.
Accepted items
- Non-perishable food, such as:
- Canned goods such as soup, vegetables, fruits, beans, pasta sauce, tuna, and canned meats
- Dry pasta, rice, and macaroni and cheese
- Oatmeal and dry cereal
- Baking mixes and pancake mixes
- Crackers and cookies
- Instant potatoes
- Applesauce
- Peanut butter and jelly
- Single serving snacks
- Juice boxes and bottled water
- Unopened toiletry items, including:
- Toothpaste and toothbrushes
- Shampoo and conditioner
- Deodorant
- Lotion
- Shaving cream
- Tampons and sanitary pads
- Sunscreen
- Diapers
- Brushes and combs
- Pet supplies:
- Wet and dry food for dogs, cats, puppies, and kittens
- Treats for dogs and cats
- New, unused brushes and combs
- New, unused leashes and collars
Expired food, condiments, fruits and vegetables, bread, items needing refrigeration, used items, and open packages cannot be accepted.
Our partners
All donations support local food pantries, who provide food assistance regardless of race, sex, age, color, national origin, disability, sexual orientation or religion.
