Resources are available on campus and throughout the community for College of Western Idaho (CWI) students and employees who may be experiencing food insecurity.
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Pantry Donations
Campus food and hygiene pantries are stocked by donations. Your support is greatly appreciated!
Food items:
Healthy, grab-and-go lunch and snacks items students can eat while on campus are our biggest need and may include:
- instant soups (ramen, mac-n-cheese or other instant meals)
- pull-top cans or pouches of tuna, chicken, other meats
- pull-top canned soups, chili, ravioli Individual-sized applesauce or fruit cups and pouches
- granola bars and similar snack items
- small jars of peanut butter
- individual size bags of jerky, crackers, trail mix, nuts, and dried fruit
- instant oatmeal
- individual-sized juices and milk boxes that do not require refrigeration
Please avoid canned vegetables, pastas, sauces, rices, and single ingredients for a meal as these items do not move as quickly through our pantries.
Miscellaneous items:
- plastic silverware (no knives please)
- paper bowls (no Styrofoam)
- napkins
Hygiene items:
- toothpaste and toothbrushes
- shampoo and conditioner
- soap and body wash
- deodorant
- razors and shaving cream
- feminine hygiene products
- hairbrushes and combs
The food pantry cannot accept perishable, expired, or opened items.
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Local Food Pantries
Located throughout the Treasure Valley provide free food to those in need at no cost. Use the downloadable lists below or use the Idaho Food Bank Food Locator to find a pantry close to you.
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Food Assistance Programs
For food assistance through state food assistance programs:
- Free and Reduced Meals in Schools provides school-aged children with free and reduced-price meals during the school year.
- Women, Infants, and Children Program (WIC) provides children under the age of 5, infants, and pregnant or nursing women with specific foods to improve nutrition.
- Summertime Meals for Children and Families is similar to the Free and Reduced Meals during the school year.
- Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) provides assistance to low-income families to buy food needed in order to stay healthy.
