Meeting the needs of the whole person: Food pantry staff perspectives on addressing diverse client needs and strategic sourcing

Food pantries have become a sustained source of food assistance in the United States, yet little is known about how staff navigate procurement to meet diverse community needs. In this qualitative study, 10 pantry staff representing nine food pantries across three U.S. regions were interviewed to examine sourcing and decision-making. Staff described balancing cultural preferences, chronic disease management, and non-food needs amid limited budgets and reduced supply from traditional sources. They employed creative strategies, including local partnerships and new funding sources. Findings show staff are key actors shaping food access and underscore the need for policies supporting flexible, community-responsive procurement.