The Portland Children’s Levy renews commitment to school-based food pantries

April 27, 2017 – The parking lot of Glenfair Elementary is an extra busy place Tuesday afternoons. While kids play, their parents pick up fresh produce and staples at the school’s pantry to make sure everyone has enough to eat at home.

The School Pantry Program serves low-income families at schools that have at least 65% free and reduced lunch rates. Thanks to a renewed $1 million dollar grant from The Portland Children’s Levy, 18 school pantries and three summer harvest shares will have funding for two more years.

Schools are a familiar, convenient location and the pantries serve as a natural entry point for families to receive other services. In addition, families who visit a pantry are more involved with school activities and their kids have the energy they need to learn and play. Your contributions allow this program to be replicated around the state, giving a brighter future to thousands of families.