Palmerston, Ont. – The County of Wellington and the Town of Minto are pleased to announce the opening of a new community food pantry at the Palmerston Branch of the Wellington County Library. This marks the third pantry in Minto, joining successful 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," said Minto Mayor Dave Turton.
Minto's Community Food Pantries represent a new approach to fighting food insecurity without an intake application or appointment. Residents can simply take what they need, when they need it.
"Our community benefits from having multiple food access points working together," said Justine Dainard, Smart Cities Manager with the County of Wellington 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."
According to the Guelph-Wellington Poverty Task Force, 22% of households in the community are food insecure. Nationally, Food Banks Canada reports that March 2024 saw more than two million food bank visits, the highest number in history, representing a 90% increase since 2019.
The Harriston and Palmerston Branch locations are supported by proceeds from the Anderson’s annual Community Christmas Dinner, championed by Minto Deputy Mayor Jean Anderson and County Councillor Dave Anderson. Since 2016, the dinner has provided free holiday meals while raising generous donations for local food banks and now, the community food pantries.
The Palmerston Community Food Pantry is now open during regular library hours. Community members in need may visit and take what they require - no questions asked. Other community members who are able are encouraged to donate shelf-stable foods directly to the collection bin of any local community pantry - both food banks and community pantries rely on neighbours helping neighbours.
Media Contacts:
Justine Dainard, Smart Cities Manager, County of Wellington, 519.837.2600 x 2540, justined@wellington.ca
Belinda Wick-Graham, Director of Economic and Community Development, Town of Minto, 519.388.2511 x 241, belinda@town.minto.on.ca