What should you do with leftover food and water after a storm? Because of advancements in meteorology, it is easy to be prepared for a storm with plenty of time to spare. That includes picking up shelf staple foods and lots of water in case power goes out. If you don’t use those supplies, please do not return them to the store. Food and water will not go back on the shelf, they will go in the trash. Instead, consider donating them to a local food bank or homeless shelter. If you aren’t sure who to call, a local church should be able to point you in the right direction.