School Based Pantry Program

Starting in August of 2011, Martha’s Table partnered with Target to provide groceries to the students of two elementary schools (Garrison and Amidon-Bowen) in Washington, DC, one day a month, throughout the school year. This Fall, we have expanded, as of September of 2012 we are now providing groceries to four schools in DC; Garrison in the NW, Amidon-Bowen in the SW, Hendley in the SE and Thomas Stone Elementary in Mount Rainier, MD.  Similar to the pantry we operate here at Martha's Table, we will set up “mobile grocery stores” in the schools so that parents can select nutritious foods for their families.  During the school year, we are fortunate to have a surplus of sandwiches from donors from schools, church, business groups and individuals, which we distribute to those in need.  Martha’s Table is extremely thankful for the generosity of students, faculty, families and individuals on whose donations we rely. While we appreciate and are in need of sandwiches, during this academic year we will be tripling the amount of non-perishable food we distribute because of the school pantry program, and consequently are in a greater need of non-perishable donations such as boxed and canned goods.  Each month we will distribute about 22 pounds of groceries to the families at Amidon-Bowen and Garrison.  The items consist of a mix of non-perishable pantry staples, meats and fresh fruits and vegetables.  One goal of the program is to ensure that at least 25% of the items we make available are fresh produce.