Meeting the need: how the Reading Food Pantry supports hundreds each month
Photo provided by Simone Payment.
In a small, unassuming space just outside of Reading’s center, a team of dedicated volunteers works quietly but powerfully to keep hundreds of neighbors fed, cared for, and supported. The Reading Food Pantry, a staple of community support for decades, continues to grow in impact as demand rises across the region.
“The mission of the Reading Food Pantry is to address the food and personal care needs of our neighbors through high-quality, respectful service in a welcoming environment,” says Simone Payment, the pantry's director. “Our goal is to enhance well-being in our community and eliminate barriers to food - whether those are tied to income, health, or identity.”
Rising demand, expanding care
Since the pandemic, the need for food assistance in Reading has surged. What once averaged about 150 individuals per month has grown to more than 400 - including 90 - 100 seniors and 60 - 100 children under 18.
To adapt, the pantry has restructured how it serves neighbors. While volunteers fill grocery orders inside, visitors wait in their cars and come in a few at a time to browse expanded offerings of fresh produce and essential items. Though the pantry remains limited in space, its mission to serve with dignity is unwavering.
What they need most
While food is always in demand, certain essentials are consistently in short supply - particularly baby products, pet food, toiletries, and paper goods. Items like instant coffee, hot cocoa mix, granola bars, and kids’ snacks are always welcome. In contrast, the pantry typically has plenty of pasta, mac and cheese, tuna, and cereal on hand.
Photo provided by Simone Payment.
And while they cannot accept frozen or homemade food due to safety regulations, they love receiving fresh produce from local gardens - a simple yet impactful way for green-thumbed residents to contribute.
How you can help
Donate
In-person donations are accepted every Wednesday from 4:00 - 6:00 pm at the pantry. You can also drop off food in the collection bins at Stop & Shop and Market Basket during store hours. Large donations can be coordinated by calling 781-944-8486.
Volunteer
Though the Pantry is often well-staffed, new volunteers are welcome to explore opportunities on the Volunteer Page. There’s always a need for those willing to run food drives, offer administrative skills like grant writing, or assist with publicity.
Spread the word
“One of the best ways people can help is by simply making others aware that we exist,” says Payment. “Many people in Reading don’t know there’s a food pantry here - or that they may qualify for help.”
Visitors are welcomed every Monday evening (6:30 - 7:30 pm) and Friday morning (10:30 - 11:30 am) in the back parking lot at 6 Salem Street (Old South United Methodist Church). Offerings include dry goods, eggs, cheese, frozen meat, fresh produce, baby and personal care items, and even pet food. A delivery program is also available for those unable to visit in person.
Photo provided by Simone Payment.
What’s next
The pantry will be hosting a booth at Friends and Family Day on June 14 - a great chance to meet the team, ask questions, and learn more about how you can make a difference. And for those who prefer online giving, keep an eye out for the pantry’s monthly Amazon Wishlist, shared via their website and Facebook page.
At its core, the Reading Food Pantry is more than a source of nourishment. It’s a community lifeline - one powered by compassion, volunteerism, and the belief that no neighbor should go hungry.
