Empowering Food Pantries to Support Community Wellness
Practical tools, resources, and training from the Boston Organization of Nutritionists and Dietitians (BOND) to transform how food pantries serve their communities.
Explore the Toolkit
About BOND
The Boston Organization of Nutritionists and Dietitians (BOND) is dedicated to advancing nutrition equity and improving community health outcomes across Greater Boston. Our mission centers on breaking down barriers to healthy eating and ensuring that all community members have access to nutritious, culturally appropriate foods.
We collaborate directly with local organizations, food pantries, and community leaders to bring evidence-based solutions that address food insecurity and chronic disease prevention. Our approach recognizes that sustainable change happens when communities are empowered with the right tools, knowledge, and support systems.
Through partnerships with healthcare providers, social service agencies, and grassroots organizations, BOND creates comprehensive programs that meet people where they are and respect their unique cultural backgrounds and dietary preferences.

Our Impact - Over 50 Boston-area food pantries and wellness focused organizations have implemented our nutrition programs, serving more than 15,000 families annually.
Understanding the SWAP System
Supporting Wellness at Pantries (SWAP) is an innovative nutrition ranking system designed to make healthy food choices easier and more accessible at food pantries. This evidence-based approach respects client dignity while promoting better health outcomes for entire families.
Green - Choose Often
Fresh and frozen fruits and vegetables, whole grains like brown rice and oats, lean proteins including beans, lentils, fish, and poultry. These nutrient-dense foods form the foundation of a healthy diet.
Yellow - Choose Sometimes
Processed grains like white bread and pasta, canned foods with moderate sodium, dairy products with added sugars. These foods can be part of a balanced diet in moderation.
Red - Choose Rarely
Sugar-sweetened beverages, high-sodium processed meats, candy and sweets, heavily processed snack foods. These items are best enjoyed occasionally as treats.
This color-coding system helps pantry staff, volunteers, and clients make informed choices while maintaining the dignity and autonomy that every person deserves when accessing food assistance.
Complete Toolkit Resources
01
SWAP Training Guides
Comprehensive step-by-step materials designed specifically for pantry staff and volunteers. Includes implementation timelines, troubleshooting tips, and staff meeting templates to ensure smooth adoption of the SWAP system.
02
Pantry Signage & Labels
Professional, downloadable color-coded signs and shelf labels available in multiple languages. These eye-catching materials guide client food selection while creating an organized, welcoming pantry environment.
03
Client Education Materials
Engaging handouts, colorful posters, and short instructional videos that teach community members about making healthier food choices. Content is culturally sensitive and available in English and Spanish.
04
Implementation Checklist
A practical, actionable guide to assess organizational readiness and track progress as pantries adopt SWAP. Includes metrics for measuring success and templates for gathering community feedback.
05
Success Stories
Inspiring case studies from local Boston pantries demonstrating how SWAP implementation improves food access, increases client satisfaction, and strengthens community health outcomes.
Recipes for Wellness
Celebrating the rich culinary traditions of our diverse Boston communities while promoting nutrition and health.
Honoring Cultural Heritage
Our recipe collection recognizes that healthy eating must be culturally relevant and personally meaningful. These nutritious, heritage-inspired recipes are designed to highlight healthy pantry staples while celebrating the food traditions that bring families and communities together.
Practical & Accessible
Each recipe uses ingredients commonly found in food pantries and includes adaptations for dietary restrictions. Clear instructions and nutritional information help families prepare satisfying, health-promoting meals with confidence.
African Diaspora Recipe Collection
West African Peanut Stew
A hearty, protein-rich stew combining natural peanut butter, tomatoes, leafy greens, and beans. This one-pot meal is packed with healthy fats, fiber, and essential nutrients that support heart health and sustained energy.
Jollof Brown Rice with Vegetables
A whole grain adaptation of the beloved West African classic, featuring brown rice, fresh tomatoes, bell peppers, onions, and aromatic herbs. Higher in fiber and nutrients than traditional versions while maintaining authentic flavors.
Caribbean Black Bean & Plantain Bowl
A vibrant combination of protein-rich black beans, naturally sweet roasted plantains, and seasonal vegetables. This fiber-packed meal provides sustained energy and supports digestive health while celebrating Caribbean flavors.
Latinx Recipe Collection
Arroz con Pollo (Brown Rice & Chicken)
A nutritious twist on this beloved comfort food, featuring brown rice, lean chicken breast, and an abundance of fresh vegetables. Lower in sodium and higher in fiber than traditional preparations while maintaining the warm, familiar flavors families love.
Vegetarian Pozole Verde
A plant-based version of the traditional Mexican soup, featuring hominy, tomatillos, green peppers, and beans. Rich in plant-based protein and fiber, this satisfying soup provides essential nutrients while honoring culinary traditions.
Black Bean & Corn Arepas
Naturally gluten-free cornmeal patties stuffed with seasoned black beans, sweet corn, and fresh vegetables. These handheld meals are perfect for families and provide complete proteins when beans and corn are combined.
The Click N Cook Database is an innovative multilingual online resource designed to empower both pantry clients and staff with easy access to nutritious and delicious recipes. It's a comprehensive tool to help make healthy eating accessible and enjoyable for everyone, promoting nutrition equity within the community.
Search by Ingredients
Find recipes based on ingredients you already have on hand, minimizing food waste and inspiring culinary creativity.
Filter by Cuisine
Discover a wide array of recipes from diverse culinary traditions, catering to various tastes and dietary needs.
Nutrition Tags
Easily identify recipes that align with specific nutritional goals, such as low-sodium, high-fiber, or allergen-friendly options.
Print & Share
Conveniently print your favorite recipes for offline use or share them digitally with family and friends.
Interactive Features & Support
Access and download all resources directly from our comprehensive online library. Materials are regularly updated and available in multiple formats for easy printing and sharing.
Beautifully designed, printable recipe cards available in both English and Spanish. Perfect for pantry distribution and family meal planning.
Find answers to common questions from pantry staff, volunteers, and community members. Regularly updated based on real-world implementation experiences.
Request personalized training, technical assistance, or consultation from our team of registered dietitians and community health experts.
Join Our Mission
Support BOND's commitment to nutrition equity and help us expand the SWAP initiative to reach more communities across Boston and beyond. Together, we can create lasting change in how food pantries serve their communities.
Partner With Us
Bring SWAP to your food pantry or organization. We provide comprehensive implementation support, training, and ongoing technical assistance to ensure your success.
Volunteer
Join our community outreach efforts, help with program implementation, or share your professional expertise. Every contribution makes a meaningful difference in promoting community health.
Donate
Your financial support helps sustain and expand our nutrition equity programs, ensuring we can continue serving communities that need these resources most.
Connect With BOND
Boston Organization of Nutritionists and Dietitians
We're here to support your organization's nutrition equity goals and answer any questions about implementing the SWAP system. Our team of experienced registered dietitians and community health professionals is committed to helping you succeed.
Whether you're just learning about SWAP or ready to implement the full toolkit, we encourage you to reach out. We offer flexible support options including virtual consultations, on-site training, and ongoing technical assistance.
  • 📍 Boston, Massachusetts

Ready to get started? Download our Quick Start Guide and begin transforming your pantry's approach to nutrition today.
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BOND SWAP Toolkit | A Boston Public Health Commission Partnership