The Reading Food Pantry started in 1983 as a small closet in the Old South United Methodist Church on Salem Street serving a few neighbors. It has now expanded to serving 400+ families in Reading. Did you know that 1 in 3 Massachusetts Adults are Food Insecure? The Pantry has seen a significant increase over the last three years. Increased costs and shortages in donations have led to strain on the overall operation.
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.
While most of their inventory comes from direct donations from our community, they also publish lists to Facebook and Amazon Wish Lists. These items can be ordered directly from Amazon and are shipped directly to the Food Pantry.
They always need the following: coffee, tea, flour, sugar, baking soda, cooking oil, lunch packs of fruit, toothpaste, shampoo, conditioner, laundry detergent, and tissues. Donation bins are located near the church office at the end of the hall, and at Stop and Shop and Market Basket in Reading. They also accept donations at the Reading Food Pantry at 6 Salem Street on Wednesdays from 4:30 to 6pm at the rear of the building.
Specific needs for June are: Laundry Detergent, Hot Cocoa, Decaffeinated Coffee, Granola Bars and Instant Mashed Potatoes.
One church member shared that she always keeps the list handy when she shops and tries to pick up at least one item for the food pantry. Watch for sales and deals to get more bang for your buck!!
You can donate Items or money. https://www.readingfoodpantry.org/donate
Need help? The Reading Food Pantry is open to serve neighbors on Mondays from 6:30-7:30pm, and Fridays from 10:30-11:30am. …
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