What began as a modest fundraising effort soon grew into a powerful show of local support - raising approximately $10,000 for the Reading Food Pantry at a time of growing need.

As 2025 comes to a close, the Reading Food Pantry is expressing deep gratitutde for the volunteers, supporters, and community members who helped make another year of service possible. In a year marked by rising need, Executive Director Simone Payment shared a heartfelt message reflecting on the organization’s impact and outlining exciting plans for the year ahead.

The Reading Food Pantry is extending heartfelt thanks to the community after an extraordinary outpouring of generosity throughout November. With increased need across the region, donations made a meaningful difference for neighbors facing difficult times - and Pantry volunteers say they are deeply grateful for every contribution.

Even in a state with abundant resources, hunger remains a serious challenge. According to the Greater Boston Food Bank, one in three residents in eastern Massachusetts experiences food insecurity — a figure that has remained steady for three consecutive years. Here in Reading, the Food Pantry is working every day to meet that need while building connections that strengthen my community.