A new volunteer-run community pantry is coming to Tillsonburg, Ontario, to provide residents with around-the-clock access to food without the need for appointments or paperwork. Construction on the project is expected to begin in the spring of 2026, with a planned opening for the public in the summer of 2026.
The new pantry will be located on the grounds of the Station Arts Centre. The initiative is being organized by a committee that includes members from the Rotary Club of Tillsonburg.
To ensure the food is handled safely and the shelves remain stocked, the organizers have formed a partnership with the Tillsonburg Helping Hand Food Bank. This partnership will help the volunteer group manage inventory and follow food safety rules.
The project is designed to help local families as the demand for food support continues to rise. In 2024, the Tillsonburg Helping Hand Food Bank recorded 3,676 visits, which was a 35 per cent increase over the previous year.
The pantry will serve as a supplement to existing services, offering a way for people to get food at any time of the day or night. It operates on a simple system where residents can take what they need or leave donations for their neighbours.
