Counting contributors is misleading: one person may bring four servings and another twenty. Quantity coverage makes those promises comparable.
Keep one event focused
Use separate lists for different dates or locations. Every target then has one clear group, deadline, and organiser.
Name needs by outcome
Use “Main dishes” or “Drinking water,” then let contributors describe their actual item. This keeps the list flexible without losing the target.
Make over-coverage visible but harmless
A need can exceed 100 percent. Keep the true promised quantity visible so the organiser can decide whether extra is welcome.
Use capability links deliberately
Participants can see group coverage and add a promise. A private receipt changes only one contribution. The organiser link controls the event.
Convert remaining gaps into purchases
At the deadline, remaining quantities form a short shopping list. Covered needs require no extra calculation.
Treat the numbers as coordination data
Targets do not replace attendance confirmation, dietary conversations, or professional food-safety guidance.