Because of you: Reading Food Pantry reflects on a record-breaking year of community support
Photo provided by the Reading Food Pantry.
For over four decades, the Reading Food Pantry has been a cornerstone of compassion in our community - providing nourishment, dignity, and connection to neighbors in need. In 2024, thanks to an outpouring of support from volunteers, donors, and local organizations, the Pantry had one of its most impactful years in its 41-year history.
“Because of you,” writes Executive Director Simone Payment, “the Reading Food Pantry has remained a place of hope, support, and nourishment.”
The numbers tell a powerful story:
4,003 neighbors served - a 70% increase since January
103 children helped in November alone, up from 52 at the start of the year
15,129 bags of food distributed
$292,000 in in-kind donations received
Nearly 100 volunteers, ranging in age from 10 to over 80
Photo provided by the Reading Food Pantry.
On volunteer captured the Pantry’s spirit beautifully when she described bringing a friend in need for the first time. The friend had been unsure, but when she assured him that walking into the Pantry would feel like “receiving a warm hug.” That sense of comfort, community, and care is made possible by the generosity of Reading residents.
Community Highlights
Photo provided by the Reading Food Pantry.
Peanut Butter & Beans Drive: Over 1,000 cans of beans and 750 jars of peanut butter were collected thanks to Stop & Shop and community donors.
USPS Food Drive: Reading’s mail carriers collected 232 bags of food in one day!
Local Leaders in Action: The Reading Police Department and RMHS Rocket Leaders in Action collected more than 150 bags of food through student led drives.
These efforts, large and small, are what keep the shelves stocked and the doors open.
“Every smile, every full bag, and every warm hug - they all happen because of you,” says Payment.
Photo provided by the Reading Food Pantry.
As the Pantry looks ahead to a new year of service, it does so with deep gratitude - and a renewed commitment to meeting the growing needs of the community with compassion and care.
To read more about the Pantry’s impact, get involved, or donate, visit the Reading Food Pantry’s website and follow their updates throughout the year on their Facebook page.
