New York Common Pantry Promotes Dignity and Self-Sufficiency

by Justin Taylor

Part of the Food Policy Community Spotlight Series

Name: New York Common Pantry

What they do: New York Common Pantry works toward the reduction of hunger and food insecurity through an array of programs that function to establish long-term independence for those they serve.

How they do it: Their whole-person approach starts with food provision through the distribution of nutritious, fresh food pantry packages in their Choice Pantry and hearty balanced breakfasts and dinners through the Hot Meals program. Supplemental food is provided to seniors aged 60 and older through the Nourish program. They then go further to address the reasons for food insecurity with case management services through Help 365, which helps Pantry visitors gain access to resources, and Project Dignity, which connects homeless visitors to resources. The third vital element in their whole-person approach is education, which is offered through their Live Healthy! program. Live Healthy! teaches children and adults about the importance of a nutritionally sound diet and active living while also providing them with the skills necessary to make healthier choices for their families.

Mission:New York Common Pantry is dedicated to reducing hunger throughout New York City while promoting dignity and self-sufficiency.”

Latest project/campaign: Their initial strategic plan called for New York Common Pantry to expand their programs in measured steps to reach the entire city. In 2016 they opened their first two satellite locations in the Bronx and began planning for a third while also delivering mobile services in four of the five boroughs and operating their home site in Manhattan.

Major Funding:

Government Programs: $2,141,457 | 29%

Corporations & Foundations: $1,699,454 | 23%

In-Kind: $1,690,339 | 23%

Full list of current funders here.

Profit/nonprofit: Nonprofit

Annual Budget: $5.5 million

Interesting fact about how they are working to positively affect the food system: In fiscal year 2017, they provided 21,446 individuals with a total of 2,472,378 meals through Choice Pantry.

FACT SHEET:

Location:

8 East 109th Street

New York, NY 10029

Core Programs:

  • Choice Pantry
  • Help 365
  • Live Healthy!
  • Nourish
  • Project Dignity

Number of staff: 15

Areas served: Brooklyn, Bronx, Manhattan, Queens

Year Started: 1980

Director: Stephen Grimaldi

Contact Information:

Email

(917) 720-9700

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