Give Help

As a nonprofit organization, we depend entirely on donations from individuals, corporations, foundations and other strategic partners.

Make a Monetary Donation
The Al Nelson Friendship Center Food Pantry is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization and all donations are tax deductible.

The Pantry benefits from a number of food drives each year that supplement our inventory. However, food donations are non-perishable items and it is imperative that we supplement free food from local drives and the Western Mass. Food Bank with sufficient additional food chosen for its nutritional value, such as fruits, vegetables, milk and eggs.

Ideas for Healthy Food Donations

  1. Canned beans, dry beans
  2. Peanut butter, or other nut butters
  3. Rolled oats
  4. Canned fruit in juice, not in light or heavy syrup
  5. Canned vegetables, with no or low-sodium
  6. Soups with low-sodium
  7. Canned tuna in water or canned chicken
  8. Brown rice
  9. Shelf stable milk and milk substitutes
  10. Whole grain, low sugar cold cereals
  11. Canned tomatoes
  12. Whole grain pasta
  13. Low-sodium pasta sauce
  14. Chicken, beef and vegetable broths and stock
  15. Diapers, adult diapers, hygiene products

Additional tips:  Canned goods with pop-top lids are better than those requiring a can opener.  Avoid foods packaged in glass.  Do not donate foods that are past the expiration date.

VOLUNTEER:  Please stop by the pantry and fill out a volunteer form with areas of interest.  Opportunities may include Intake, Bagging or Phone Orders on Wednesdays 10 am - 12:00 pm or 12:00 pm - 2:00 pm, Boxers and drivers on Thursday mornings between 10 am - 12:00 pm, and unloading the delivery from the Western Mass. Food Bank on Friday 11 am - 12:30 pm.

The Al Nelson Friendship Center Food Pantry is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization and all donations are tax deductible.