According to the White House, "The President and the First Lady strongly encourage all Americans to consider making contributions to their favorite charities in lieu of gifts to the First Family. And, please note, the White House is unable to accept cash, checks, bonds, gift certificates, foreign currency, or other monetary equivalents". Furthermore, "for security reasons, please do not send perishable gifts — such as food, liquids, or flowers — to the White House. Additionally, the delivery of items sent to the White House is often significantly delayed, and enclosed items may be damaged during the security screening process. Because of this, items of personal importance, such as family photographs, should not be sent and cannot be returned."