School-based pantries offer a host of benefits, not the least of which is a readily accessible source of food assistance to low-income students and their families.

 The vision of the School Pantry program is to provide direct access to emergency food; put less stress on families; help establish strong, trusting relationships with school staff; and strengthen feelings of safety and comfort at the school. Children will come to school well-nourished, ready and able to learn.

 The Idaho Foodbank piloted the School Pantry Program during the 2010-2011 school year with three sites in Boise and one in Pocatello. During the five-month-long pilot, the pantries distributed 14,310 pounds in 205 distributions to 122 families.