Otis Food Pantry Update

By Terry Gould

July 2025

July! We made it. As I write this it is still early June, and we have had more rain than sun for such a long time. My hope is that this article has appeared in a future of sunshine and picnics. 

The constant rain and cool weather in the months of May and June have delayed gardens. Many plantings were drowned so we hope for a long stretch of good weather. 

The pantry remains busy and non-perishable items are in demand. This year we have seen a more constant need for shelf-stable foods. Generally in summer fresh produce is more in demand. This is the first time since our initial summer that we are seeing this trend for non-perishable items. Canned fruits and vegetables as well as soups, tuna, chicken and canned prepared items are very popular. 

As of this writing, our USDA Local Food Purchase Assistance Coop Agreement grant which allowed us additional fresh local produce has been cut. A new farm-to-pantry grant has been put in place which is about half of the monthly share we received in the past. We hope that our local gardeners have thriving gardens and that their extra plants and rows will yield a bit to share. 

Thank you all again for dedicating space in your gardens to the pantry. Fresh produce may be dropped off at the pantry between 8 and 9 am on Wednesdays. If you wish to have your extra produce picked up, please message us on our Facebook page and we will arrange for a volunteer to pick it up from you on Tuesday afternoon or evening or on our way to the pantry on Wednesday mornings. You are superheroes!

Without the continued generosity of the residents, businesses and friends of the town of Otis, the pantry would not exist. We can never thank you enough for everything that you do to keep our shelves stocked. We are humbled and grateful every day. Enjoy Summer!