Community Spotlight
Neighborhood Food Pantry Sees Spike in Donations
The community-run pantry in Scarborough reported record contributions this spring as neighbors stepped up to support one another.
June 10, 2025 at 13:49 — By By Horizon Tribune Editorial Team
A grassroots food pantry in Scarborough has seen a remarkable uptick in donations this spring, signaling renewed community solidarity amid rising food insecurity. Operated by a coalition of local churches, nonprofits, and volunteers, the pantry serves hundreds of families each week and has become a crucial support system for many.
According to organizers, donations of non-perishable goods, hygiene products, and fresh produce have more than doubled compared to the same period last year. The influx has allowed the pantry to expand its hours and offer more consistent services to residents in need.
Volunteer coordinator Jasleen Grewal credits the spike to a combination of outreach efforts and a growing public awareness of food insecurity in the wake of inflation. 'We’ve seen new donors every week — individuals, schools, even businesses hosting food drives. It’s heartening to witness,' she said.
The pantry, located in the basement of a community center near Lawrence Avenue East, operates four days a week and is staffed entirely by volunteers. On any given morning, you’ll find students unloading boxes, seniors sorting canned goods, and parents helping clients navigate the distribution process.
Recipients are allowed to visit once a week and choose from a selection of donated items, depending on availability. The pantry also offers hot meals on Thursdays, prepared by volunteers in a certified kitchen onsite. These meals are especially popular with seniors and single-parent households.
One recent addition is the 'Fresh Fridays' program, which distributes fruits and vegetables from local farms and community gardens. The initiative was made possible through a partnership with FoodShare Toronto and has helped increase the pantry’s nutritional offerings.
Scarborough resident Olivia Mendez, a regular recipient, says the pantry has been a lifeline. 'Groceries are so expensive right now. Without this place, I honestly don’t know how we’d make it through the month,' she shared while holding a reusable bag filled with beans, rice, and apples.
Beyond food distribution, the pantry also hosts periodic workshops on budgeting, nutrition, and cooking on a tight budget. These sessions are open to the public and have been met with strong attendance.
Local leaders have praised the initiative, with City Councillor Anika Rao calling it 'a shining example of community-led resilience and care.' She noted that the pantry’s model could be replicated in other neighborhoods facing similar challenges.
The pantry has also benefited from a recent tech upgrade — a simple database that helps track inventory, coordinate volunteers, and monitor service levels. 'It may seem small, but it’s made a huge difference in how smoothly we operate,' said Grewal.
Looking ahead, the organization hopes to secure long-term funding that will allow for permanent expansion and a full-time staff member. In the meantime, volunteers continue to step up and meet the moment — with generosity, determination, and a clear commitment to their neighbors.
Organizers are also planning a summer open house to thank the community and showcase the pantry’s impact. Scheduled for August, the event will include tours, live music, and a silent auction to raise additional funds.
In a city as large as Toronto, it’s easy to feel anonymous. But in this Scarborough basement, the bonds of community are unmistakably strong — built bag by bag, box by box, and gesture by gesture.