Contact your local food bank for more information on special programs to feed kids. Programs include the School Pantry Program, where parents can conveniently pick up food at their child’s school, and the BackPack Program, which gives children food to take home for the weekends.

Who can go to a school pantry?

School pantries serve families who need extra help affording groceries. They are not limited to students who receive free or reduced lunch. Some welcome all students in their district even if they don’t attend that school. Some also welcome neighbors in the community, even if they don’t have children at the school.

When are school pantries open?

Many school pantries are open on specific days and times. They are generally open at least once a month. Others are open once a week or as needed for families to stop in. School pantries may also operate during the summer when school is out.

How do you find a school pantry?

The Feeding America network operates nearly 4,000 school pantries across the country. Ask your school, school district, or your local food bank.

Backpack food programs offer families free groceries for weekends and school breaks. Food backpacks include healthy, easy-to-prepare food for kid-friendly meals.

Food banks partner with schools, Boys and Girls Clubs, and community centers to distribute backpacks to kids.

How do I find a BackPack Program near me?

The Feeding America network hosts over 10,000 Backpack Programs across the United States. Find a weekend backpack program by asking your school district or local food bank. Just enter your zipcode here.

Even if a food bank looks far away, they work with schools and youth programs closer to your home.