As much as it sounds like a great idea, there are some practical issues -- dogs with specific dietary needs ~ allergies, pancreatic issues, metabolic problems, etc.
I think anything is better than nothing. If you know your dog has specific needs, then you'd have to make that clear and hope for the best. As I said on the other thread, I regular have access to outdated prescription diets, so even those with special needs may get lucky. If you don't want to risk it, you don't have to participate, but don't stop others from using it they need it.
I was thinking more along the lines of local pick-up. I know we're all spread out, but I would be willing to do local pickup first, as I could give more food that way. Honestly, the flat rate boxes are a great idea, but I can't fir $5 worth of dog food into the small box. So the shipping is more than the food is even worth. If you want to help those that are farther away, I think something along the lines of gift cards would be better. Of course there's always the chance of abusing the system, but sometimes you have to take that chance.
If someone needs food, and I have an extra $10, instead of sending a flat rate box of food I'd rather go get a 50 pound bag of that Ol Yeller stuff from Dillons and give it to someone who needs it. Yes, it's crap, but some dogs can thrive on crap, and if it's all you got, it's still better than nothing.
By local pickup, I don't necessarily mean in the same city - I'd be willing to drive a bit, maybe meet in the middle (though if you're short on money you're probably short on gas, so as long as it was a reasonable distance I'd just as son drive the whole way to deliver it myself). I love to drive anyway since that's the only time I really get to listen to music lol
Maybe those willing to do local deliveries/pickups can post on a thread where they're located? Not an exact address, but maybe city or county. I know I'd at least be willing to drive to any of the adjacent counties, if not farther.