By Beth Barhydt
In a town known for its close-knit community and deep-rooted traditions, the New Canaan Food Pantry plays a vital, if understated, role. Operated by New Canaan Human Services and based at St. Mark’s Episcopal Church, the pantry provides essential food support for residents who find themselves facing difficult circumstances.
Every other Tuesday, the pantry’s volunteers gather to transform the church basement into a hub of quiet generosity. Shelves stocked with canned goods, pasta, rice, and cereal are meticulously organized and distributed to individuals and families in need. This biweekly effort reflects New Canaan’s spirit: neighbors helping neighbors, no questions asked, no judgment passed.
The increasing demand for the pantry’s services tells a story not often shared. Rising costs of living, economic challenges, and changes in housing demographics have created a growing need for resources like the pantry. More families are finding themselves navigating unexpected financial strains, even in a community that values stability and support.
During the holidays the pantry provides all the fixings for Thanksgiving meals and the New Canaan Police Department donates chickens or turkeys that they pick up at ACME.
For Christmas they will provide everything for a Christmas dinner; and for families with children under the age of 18, the pantry gives gift cards to Walmart to fulfill help holiday wish lists.
Senior citizens are also included as volunteers shop specifically for a senior in order to create a beautiful gift filled basked that will be personally delivered by members of the Health and Human Services Commission.
How the Pantry Works
The New Canaan Food Pantry is a collaborative effort, driven entirely by the local community. Food donations, the backbone of the operation, come from residents, schools, and civic organizations. Items must be non-perishable and unexpired, with high-demand items including peanut butter, canned vegetables, soup, and pasta. Donations can be dropped off daily at St. Mark’s Episcopal Church, located at 111 Oenoke Ridge.
Monetary contributions are equally important, allowing the pantry to purchase items that might be in short supply. Checks can be made payable to the New Canaan Food Pantry and sent to New Canaan Human Services at 77 Main Street. These funds are used to fill gaps in inventory and ensure that every family receives a balanced selection of food.
Volunteers are essential to the pantry’s success. They handle everything from stocking shelves to packaging and distributing food. For those interested in giving their time, volunteering offers a direct way to contribute to the community while meeting neighbors who share the same commitment to service. To get involved, residents can contact New Canaan Human Services at 203-594-3076.
Addressing a Growing Need
Demand at the food pantry has been steadily increasing, with records showing over 100 individuals served in a single month. This rise reflects larger economic pressures that are impacting families across all walks of life. Yet the response from New Canaan has been consistent: an unwavering willingness to step up and help.
The pantry is more than a place to pick up food—it’s a community safety net. For those who use its services, it represents the assurance that even during difficult times, the people of New Canaan are here to help. For those who support it, it’s an opportunity to live out the values of compassion and care that define the town.
How You Can Help
The New Canaan Food Pantry depends on continued support to meet the growing needs of the community. Here’s how residents can contribute:
Donate Food: Non-perishable, unexpired items can be dropped off at St. Mark’s Episcopal Church.
Donate Household Items: Also in need are household cleaning supplies and personal care items such as may not be covered by benefits. These are often not given by donors: Toothpaste, Tissues, Dishwashing Detergent, Paper Towel, Cleaning Supplies, Feminine Products, etc.
Volunteer: Join the team that organizes, stocks, and distributes food every other Tuesday.
Give Financially: Send donations to New Canaan Human Services to help the pantry purchase additional supplies.
For more information, visit the New Canaan Food Pantry website at https://www.newcanaan.info/departments/human_services/new_canaan_food_pantry.php or contact New Canaan Human Services directly.
