Reading, MA — The Reading Food Pantry is celebrating its fortieth anniversary of neighbors helping neighbors! What started as a small closet in the Old South United Methodist Church on Salem Street serving a few neighbors has expanded to serving 160+ families in Reading ten times per month.
For its fortieth birthday, the Pantry has set a big goal: To raise $140,000 by the end of the year.
In the last three years, the Pantry has seen a significant increase in the need for services coupled with food shortages. Treasurer Hal Torman said, “The Pantry’s expenses increased 44% this past year due to serving more neighbors and food shortages at the Greater Boston Food Bank. When we encounter food shortages, we pay retail prices instead of the heavily discounted prices from the Food Bank.” He added, “This strains our monthly budget, but it is core to our mission to provide neighbors with staples like eggs and beans.”
From canned goods to flour and sugar to dish soap and toothpaste, the Pantry aims to address the food and personal care needs of Reading neighbors through high-quality, respectful service in a welcoming environment to enhance the community’s well-being.
And it’s not just about food. The pantry also provides books for children and adults donated by the Reading Public Library and even occasional household items like homemade quilts. Executive Director Simone Payment said, “The Pantry is a way to provide various types of support and create community. Many of our volunteers and neighbors build friendships that extend beyond the Pantry.”
While picking up fresh produce, one neighbor said, “Wonderful people. Thank goodness for this food pantry. It makes a big difference for me!”
Want to help? It’s easy!
- Donate
- Organize a fundraiser
- Organize a food drive
- Volunteer (the Pantry is currently seeking people to help with the delivery program)
Need assistance? It’s easy!
- Visit ReadingFoodPantry.org for details on how to sign up.
Questions? Contact the Pantry at ReadingFoodPantry@gmail.com.
