A long list of names does not answer whether there is enough food. Coverage should compare promised quantities with the target for every category.
Separate items from needs
“Main dishes” is the need; “two vegetable pies” is one contribution. Keeping them separate makes different useful items add up to the same target.
Choose one unit per need
Use servings for ready-to-eat food, bottles for drinks, packs for supplies, or pieces for disposable items. Avoid mixing units inside one target.
Show coverage before the form
Participants first see what is still missing, then choose a need. This prevents the form from hiding the information that should guide their choice.
Review gaps before shopping
Check the list a day or two before the event. Close contributions when you turn remaining gaps into a final organiser shopping list.
Use names for focused follow-up
The named contribution list lets the organiser clarify a quantity or item directly without searching old messages.