As families prepare for winter break, there is an important resource available to students and families across Arizona.

Many local food banks and community pantries participate in TEFAP (The Emergency Food Assistance Program), which provides free USDA food to income-eligible families, according to a press release from the Scottsdale Unified School District.

During the school break, this can be a critical support for Scottsdale families who rely on school meals during the week.

Families do not need a referral or special card. They can visit a participating food pantry during distribution hours, and eligibility is typically self-declared on site. Most locations may ask for basic identification and household information. Importantly, many pantries also offer food regardless of documentation if TEFAP requirements are not met.

Families can find nearby food banks and pantries by visiting azfoodhelp.org or azfoodbanks.org, which list locations, hours, and requirements by ZIP code.