The Acton Food Pantry is still operating during the COVID-19 crisis. For more information, please click here or contact us at 978-635-9295. We are in this together.
Helping feed our neighbors since 1984
Frequently Asked Questions
Click the category below:
Clients
I usually come on Wednesdays. Can I come Thursday this week?
Yes! Clients can come to the pantry once a week, either on Wednsday or Thursday during Distribution Hours. Clients may only visit the pantry once a week.
Can I become a client?
If the weather is bad, will the Pantry be open for shopping?
If the Pantry is closed on Wednesday, may I come on Thursday?
No. If the pantry is closed on a Wednesday, it will also be closed on Thursday. Due to the shorter hours and smaller number of volunteers we have on Thursdays, we are not able to support the over 220 clients we serve weekly in just two hours on Thursdays.
I have to follow a special diet (gluten-free, lactose intolerant, diabetc, etc.). Is there food for me at the Pantry?
Yes! We do our best to provide food for all diets. When you come to the pantry, just let the front desk staff know about your diet, and our shopper aides will help you find what you need.
Volunteers
How can I get involved as a volunteer?
That's easy! Simply email foodpantryvolunteer@actoncommunitysupper.org to let us know you're interested! We have a variety of positions for volunteers, and we would love to find a position that fits your schedule and interests!
Can my children volunteer?
What is the weather policy for volunteers working at the pantry?
If Acton-Boxborough schools call for an early dismissal due to the weather, the Pantry will
also close early. Volunteers will be contacted by email or phone when that decision is made.
If the Pantry is closed on Wednesday, the Pantry is also closed on Thursday.
Donations
Do you accept household goods?
Unfortunately, due to our small size and limited storage capacity, we are not able to accept household items. We suggest you contact Acton Household Goods for this type of donation.
How is the Pantry funded? Can I donate funds?
The Pantry is funded through a diversity of revenue sources, including special fundraising events, individual donations, and corporate and foundation grants. if you are interested in donating to the Pantry, please visit our Donations page!
How many people does Acton Food Pantry serve?
Acton Food Pantry and Community Supper serves an average of 200-220 familes each week, and have 525 families registered and eligible for service.
Can I donate food? What foods is the Pantry in need of?
Yes! We are happy to accept non-perishable food donations within the printed "best before" date. Fresh produce and dairy is needed in such high volume that we only take these items from large donors. For more information on what food items are needed at the Pantry, click here.
Do you accept baby items?
Yes! We are most in need of Diapers, Baby wipes, Formula, and Baby Food. If you have additional items you might wish to donate please contact us.
Can I donate clothing?
In order to continue our mission of helping alleviate food-insecurity in our community, we closed the Clothes Closet at the end of 2018. For community members in need, we encourage you to visit The Cornerstone Thrift Shop at Acton Congregational Church. The ACC Cornerstone Thrift Shop is located at 12 Concord Road, Acton and is open Mon, Fri 10 am-2 pm, Wed 3-5:30 pm, and Sat 10 am-Noon, from September to June.
How do I deliver my donations to the Pantry?
Donations can be delivered directly to Acton Food Pantry on Wednesday or Thursday during Distribution Hours (Wednesday from 10:00 am to 7:00 pm and Thursday from 9:30 to 11:30 am) or dropped into the drop boxes at the locations listed here. You can also call the pantry at 978-635-9295 to make an appointment for delivering your donations. Please leave a message with your contact information.