Reading Food Pantry highlights growing need, community support in April newsletter
(3-4 minute read)
The Reading Food Pantry’s April newsletter highlighted both the growing demand for food assistance across Massachusetts and the strong community support that helps the Pantry continue its work.
Executive Director Simone Payment opened the newsletter, recognizing April as both Hunger Action Month and Volunteer Appreciation Month, emphasizing the important role volunteers and community donors play in meeting rising needs.
Hunger continues to rise across Massachusetts
The Greater Boston Food Bank’s 2025 Food Access Report shows food insecurity in Massachusetts has more than doubled since 2019, rising from 19% to 40%. Photo from the Reading Food Pantry newsletter.
The newsletter referenced a recent report from the Greater Boston Food Bank showing that food insecurity has risen to 40% in Massachusetts, nearly double the rate reported in 2019. Pantry leaders said they are seeing that increased demand is reflected locally in Reading.
The Pantry encouraged residents who may need assistance, whether short-term or ongoing, to utilize available services.
The Pantry operates:
Mondays from 6:30-7:30 pm
Fridays from 10:30-11:30 am
Distribution takes place in the back parking lot of the Old South Church at 6 Salem Street.
In addition to staples such as pasta, cereal, peanut butter, and canned goods, the Pantry also provides:
Frozen meat
Fresh produce
Eggs and dairy products
Cleaning and paper products
Personal care items
Homemade take-home meals and baked goods
Annual postal food drive returns May 9
One of the Pantry’s largest annual food drives will return on Saturday, May 9, when U.S. Postal Service carriers collect food donations left by residents near their mailboxes.
The Pantry is also seeking volunteers to help sort donations that afternoon from 1:30-6:00 pm, noting the event is a good opportunity for children and teens looking to help in the community.
Volunteer Maura Rhodes, the Pantry’s Communication Coordinator, supports the Reading Food Pantry both in person and behind the scenes, helping connect residents with resources, donations, and volunteer opportunities. Photo from the Reading Food Pantry newsletter.
Gardening season brings new opportunities to help
As spring gardening begins, the Pantry encouraged residents to consider planting extra produce to donate later in the season. Fresh produce is used both for pantry distribution and the organization’s newer cooking program.
The Pantry is also seeking volunteers to assist with its 14 garden beds at the Reading Community Garden near Mattera Cabin. Tasks include planting, weeding, and harvesting throughout the growing season.
Volunteer spotlight: Maura Rhodes
This month’s volunteer spotlight recognizes Maura Rhodes, the Pantry’s communications coordinator. In addition to volunteering during Monday Pantry hours, Rhodes helps manage email inquiries, coordinates information about food drives and events, updates the Pantry website and social media, and organizes the monthly Amazon wishlist.
“The Reading Food Pantry plays an important role in our community and is made up of some of the hardest-working, dedicated people who help it run smoothly,” Rhodes shared in the newsletter.
Community spotlight: Rocket Leaders in Action and Reading Police
Members of Rocket Leaders in Action join the Reading Police Department during a “Stuff a Cruiser” food drive, collecting donations from the community to support the Reading Food Pantry. Photo from the Reading Food Pantry newsletter.
The newsletter also highlighted the partnership between Reading Memorial High School’s Rocket Leaders in Action (RLA) program and the Reading Police Department through the popular “Stuff the Cruiser” food drives held at Market Basket.
Students described the events as meaningful opportunities to support neighbors while strengthening connections within the community.
“I love this project because I get to see the difference that I make in the community as we fill trucks completely full with donations,” said RLA member Declan Grant. “It also makes me thankful for what I have and that I’ve never had to worry about where my food is coming from.”
Continuing the mission
The newsletter closed with a reminder that the Pantry’s work is made possible through volunteers, donors, and community support.
“Every smile, every full bag, and every warm hug - they all happen because of you,” the Pantry shared.
