Who Can Use the Pantry?

Anyone who is not financially able to obtain the food they need may use the Pantry. If you are on Mass Health, SNAP, Fuel Assistance or are simply unable to afford groceries this month, we are here for you. We will ask that you fill out a registration form on your first visit.

How Often Can I Visit?

Shoppers may visit once per week as needed. Some shoppers come less frequently depending on current needs. If you are limited in what you can take due to transportation or storage, let us know and we can arrange for more frequent visits.

What Kind of Food is Available?

Non-perishable grocery items, fresh produce and whole-grain bread, dairy products such as cheese, eggs, and yogurt, and frozen meats, vegetables, and fruit. Canned and dry items are still a staple, but we offer healthier low-sugar and low-sodium varieties as well. Instead of pre-packaged bags, our clientele is able to select the items they want and need, resulting in more healthy, appetizing meals with less food waste.

How Much am I Allowed to Take?

Everyone who uses the Pantry has different needs that frequently change over time. If you need only a little to supplement what you have, that is what you should take. If you are in a particularly difficult time and you need more than what is recommended, please let us know. We want you to take what you need. As a general guideline:

• A household of 1 or 2 people may take 3 reusable grocery bags of food.

• A family of 3 to 5 people may take 4 reusable grocery bags.

• A family of 5 or more can take 4+ bags (depending on how many you are feeding).

Donate Food

The Island Food Pantry purchases some 4,000 pounds of groceries and produce each week, so basic healthy staples are always in stock. Nevertheless, the donated items that we collect from our Purple Boxes, community food drives, and Pantry drop-offs are greatly valued, too. We welcome non-perishable, unopened, and unexpired groceries and toiletries. View our wishlist here.

Ideas for different ways to help:

• Consider buying an extra item or two when you shop, then place your donations inside the Purple Box as you leave the grocery store.

• Talk to your co-workers and run a food drive at work. We’ll share helpful suggestions and promote your effort on our Facebook page.

• Talk to your school about running a food drive. We’re happy to speak with students, parents, and teachers about the Food Pantry and the work that we do.

• For your next celebration – birthday, anniversary, wedding – ask guests to bring a food item or two in lieu of a gift.

• If you own a seasonal food-related business, contact the Food Pantry about donating your remaining inventory when you close for the season.

• Volunteer