Winooski Food Shelf

Mission: To provide access to nutritious food and other essential resources to individuals and families in need within the Winooski, Vermont community.

The Winooski Food Shelf is staffed by a group of twenty seven dedicated volunteers of all backgrounds and ages who come together to serve our guests–those who are in need of food assistance.  All of us share the belief that no one should go hungry in our community. Our outlook is truly ecumenical in that we welcome volunteers of all religious backgrounds, as well as those who do not have any religious affiliation.

The Winooski Food Shelf provides supplemental food assistance to residents of Winooski in need.  We are open the 2nd and 4th Wednesdays and Saturdays of the month. Residents in need of food, however, may only shop the pantry on one Wednesday, but they may come both Saturdays. Staffing the pantry and welcoming guests are only part of what we do.  Most of our time is spent running what amounts to a little grocery store. That means:  First, we need to procure the food.  We receive food donations from a wide variety of resources–individuals, companies, and food assistance not-for-profits. Or we purchase food at a variety of outlets to supplement what is not donated.  Second, we need to pick up food at various locations around Burlington, Essex and Winooski.  Third, we need to unload donations and purchases and shelve them. Last, we need to ensure that the right amount of inventory is on hand and that none of the food has expired.  It is only then that we can welcome our guests.