For years, the Neighbors Helping Neighbors Community Food Pantry at St. Anselm’s Episcopal Church has faithfully served families in need with food, compassion, and care. But as need in the community grows and the desire to serve with dignity deepens, this ministry is undergoing an important transformation—with support from Episcopal Ministries of Long Island.
Led by dedicated volunteers and inspired by the leadership of Deacon Rich Ohlsen and the Rev. Jenn, the pantry is expanding into a larger space to become a true “food shop.” This upgrade will allow clients to self-shop, selecting items in a welcoming and respectful environment—especially important for limited English speakers who have previously had to gesture for food behind cramped counters.
The grant will fund renovations to create a more spacious layout and provide refrigeration equipment. These upgrades will allow the pantry to accept offers of fresh and frozen goods—from vegetables to meats to Easter hams—that are currently out of reach due to storage limitations. With a client base that has more than doubled since late 2024, the expanded pantry will serve more neighbors, more fully.
This ministry lives out the Gospel by offering not just food, but choice, community, and dignity—reminding all who walk through its doors that they are seen, loved, and welcome at God’s table.