The monastic code requires the monks and novices to be dependent upon the lay community for all their physical needs (i.e. the material requisites of life, including all food). The kitchen & household can sometimes run low on supplies, so food & household items are some of the most practical and helpful offerings that can be brought to the monastery. Please see the guidelines below if you’re unfamiliar with the process of offering food and other requisites to the monastic community. Items helpful for our resident community: (links are provided as examples)
Last Update: July 2, 2026
Fresh berries (e.g., blackberries, blueberries)
Butter (salted or unsalted)
Hazelnut butter / Tahini
Coconut flakes
Granola
Mushrooms
Greek yogurt
Yogurt
Mozzarella cheese
Parmesan Cheese
Spring mix salad
Cauliflower
Spinach
Bell peppers
Onions
Green beans
Broccoli
Carrots
Chocolate bars (70 to 85%)
Frozen berries
TO AVOID WASTE, we have more than enough of: Maple syrup, Almond milk, Chia Seeds
Clear plastic garbage bag size large
Aluminum Foil
Beeswax Tealight Candles
Head and Shoulders shampoo
TO AVOID WASTE: No creams are required at this time.
If you have questions about what items to bring or more specific needs, or if you’d like to set a date to offer a prepared dish or offer an entire meal, please use the contact form to make an inquiry with the kitchen steward.
Food needs can change frequently because stores (especially perishables) can sometimes run low in the morning and full by the afternoon, and then low again some days later. We try to keep the following list in order of what is needed most, and as up-to-date as possible.
The monastics eat one main meal a day in late morning (around 11:00 am, depending on the time of year) and the monastic regulations require that they finish by midday. Offering food to the monastic community provides an opportunity to visit and participate in the lifestyle of the monastery. Typically, people find it easier to prepare a dish or several dishes ahead of time, and then bring the hot dishes to keep warm in our oven. When offering the meal or part of the meal at the monastery, the kitchen steward can help explain the protocol for offering food to the monks. Please click on this link if you wish to contact the kitchen steward for any inquiries regarding meal offerings.