In the past year, Feeding America's School Pantry Program has made significant strides in combating child hunger across the nation. Through partnerships with schools in high-need communities, we have provided reliable access to nutritious food for students and their families. This report highlights our key accomplishments, including the number of individuals served, pounds of food distributed, and new pantry locations established. It also features inspiring stories of how the program has made a meaningful difference in the lives of students facing hunger.
Feeding America is the nation's largest domestic hunger-relief organization, serving communities in all 50 states. Our School Pantry Program aims to alleviate child hunger by providing food pantries in schools where at least 50% of students qualify for free or reduced-price meals. These pantries offer students and their families a discreet and convenient way to access healthy food to prepare at home.
In the 2021-2022 academic year, the School Pantry Program achieved the following:
Year-over-Year Growth in Students Served:
2018-2019: 750,000
2019-2020: 900,000
2020-2021: 1,000,000
2021-2022: 1,200,000
As a single mother of three, Maria struggled to make ends meet. With the School Pantry Program, she could visit her children's school once a week to pick up fresh produce, proteins, and shelf-stable items. "I don't know what I would do without this program," Maria shared. "It's a relief to know that my kids will have full bellies when they go to bed at night."
When Mr. Johnson lost his job during the pandemic, the family worried about affording groceries. The school pantry became a lifeline, providing nutritious food for their two elementary-aged children. "We're so grateful to have this resource right at the kids' school," Mrs. Johnson expressed. "It helps take some of the stress off our shoulders."
The School Pantry Program remains committed to expanding its reach to more students and families in need. In the coming year, we aim to:
With the generous support of our donors and partners, we will continue working towards a hunger-free future for all children in America.
For more information about Feeding America's School Pantry Program, visit feedingamerica.org/schoolpantry.
