Families in the Palmerston area in need of food now have a new judgement free place to go.
A community food pantry has opened at the Palmerston Branch of the Wellington County Library. It is the Town of Minto's third such pantry and builds on the success of its locations in Clifford and Harriston.
"Whether you need to grab some essentials between paydays or want to contribute items for your neighbours, it's all happening in the welcoming space of our local library branches," Minto Mayor Dave Turton said in a statement released on Friday.
The pantry works without an intake system that requires an application or appointment. Instead, those in need can simply walk into the library and take what they would like from the shelf - no questions asked. Community members who are financially able are encouraged to donate shelf-stable foods, such as canned or dry goods, directly to the collection bin.
"Our community benefits from having multiple food access points working together," said Justine Dainard, Wellington County's smart cities manager and co-chair of the Food Access Community of Practice. "Food banks provide comprehensive, consistent support, while pantries offer another convenient option in familiar community spaces. This network approach ensures people can access what they need in ways that work best for their circumstances."
Data from the Guelph-Wellington Poverty Task Force found 22 per cent of area households are considered food insecure. Nationally, a Food Banks Canada report indicated that in March 2024 more than two million people visited food banks across the country.
The Palmerston Community Food Pantry will be available during regular library hours going forward.