NY Common Pantry

New York Common Pantry reduces hunger and promotes dignity, health and self-sufficiency.

New York Common Pantry works toward the reduction of hunger and food insecurity through an array of programs that function to establish long-term independence for those we serve. Our whole-person approach starts with food provision through the distribution of nutritious, fresh food pantry packages in Choice Pantry and hearty balanced breakfast and dinner in the Hot Meals program. Supplemental food is provided to seniors aged 60 and older through Nourish.

We then go further to address the reasons for food insecurity with case management services through the help of Help 365, which assists Pantry visitors in gaining access to resources, and Project Dignity, which connects homeless visitors to resources. The third vital element in our whole-person approach is education offered through our Live Healthy! program. Live Healthy! teaches children and adults about the importance of a nutritionally sound diet and active living, as well as provides them with the skills necessary to make healthier choices for their families.

Opportunities include:

-Organizing a food drive (e.g. a pasta bowl drive, in which dry pasta is collected)
-Organizing a hygiene kit or used towel drive (for Project Dignity, which provides access to showers and haircuts for unhoused individuals)
-Organizing a hat/glove drive for winter months
-Sandwich making

Additionally, youth and their families may hold a mitzvah food packing party for friends and family at NYCP's Bronx distribution center ("The Hub").

Learn more about volunteering, collection drives, and fundraising opportunities by emailing volunteer@nycommonpantry.org or visiting our website.