Otis Food Pantry Update
By Terry Gould
August 2025
Summer here in the Berkshires has not disappointed this year. Heat and sun interspersed with just enough rain to remind us to enjoy the season. The Otis Food Pantry continues along as we near the end of the 5th year in existence. As we begin our 6th year, we are encountering fluctuations in funding as are most pantries across the country. From week to week, we have had conflicting information about what will be available for people. Prices of goods have begun to inch up a bit and local farm funding has been lost making us dependent on the generosity of private contributions.
We are heading into our Back-to-School Season so we will be looking for school- appropriate snacks for children. The pantry will also partner with the Otis Police Department to distribute school supplies and extra snacks to begin the school year. Watch for flyers and announcements for the dates of distribution and list of school supplies needed.
Canned goods of all kinds are in demand as well to stock shelves as we head toward colder weather. Items needed every week include peanut butter and jelly, cold cereal, pasta sauce and school snacks. A huge shout out to Arlene and her elves, Susan and Jim who never miss a week, Deb who also never misses a week, Smile Like Jack, local gardeners who added an extra plant or row to their gardens to share, and our Community Gardeners for sharing information and goods with the pantry.
As folks begin to pack up their summer homes, we hope that you will consider sharing any unexpired pantry products with us. The big blue safe box at the town hall is checked every day and donations may be left there any time. Please do not place perishable products in the safe box. If you have freezer items you would like to donate, please contact us directly and we will arrange to meet you. You may text (413) 207-4028 for arrangements. A reminder to our gardeners who share space in their gardens, you may drop off vegetables etc. on Wednesday mornings between 8 and 9am or arrange with us to have a volunteer pick up from you on Tuesday evenings or Wednesday mornings. Just text at the number above.
The pantry welcomes monetary donations, which are used to purchase meat and cheese each week as well as supplemental shopping for non-perishables throughout the year. Monetary donations may be sent to Otis Food Pantry, c/o MK Pinkham, PO Box 271, Otis, MA 01253. Thank you to everyone who continues to support the Otis Food Pantry.
