Common Pantry

We're #hiring! We are looking for someone with a unique skillset, who will be able to help with the responsibilities that comes with owning our own building. If you're passionate about food access for all, working with a collaborative team, and interested in growing alongside, then please check out the description and steps to apply through our website under the "Get Involved" tab. Otherwise, please share among your networks!

A special thanks to Soup&Bread for supporting Common Pantry in March and raising over $800! The soup was delicious, the bread was warm and the room was full of community. Thank you to everyone who showed up and donated a couple weeks ago and for those who made the soup! #fundraiser #philanthropy #partnership #community #nonprofit

It's World Social Work Day (and Social Work Month) and we want to showcase all the incredible social workers on the Common Pantry team! Each and every day they use their skills to move the mission forward. From getting folks connected to resources to listening to guests when they need it the most, Jazmin, Margaret O'Conor, Abby Greaney, LCSW and Juan Alegria impact all our guests in so many critical ways. Thank you for the change you make in lives every day! #socialworkmonth #socialwork #employeeappreciation #nonprofit

Let the MADNESS BEGIN! Now that all the teams are in get ready to build your bracket and join our March Madness Bracket Challenge. Do you think UConn could go for a three-peat or is your money on Auburn or Duke? Have some fun and support Common Pantry by reserving your bracket today! Reserve a bracket here: https://lnkd.in/guwrW92D #fundraising #philanthropy #nonprofit

This week we have two employee anniversaries to highlight. Yesterday, Margaret O'Conor, our Executive Director, celebrated 7 years and today, Laine Kaehler, our Development and Communications Manager celebrate 3 years! Margaret has led the organization brilliantly throughout the years. First navigating through a pandemic to then growing staff to meet the demand to then scaling Common Pantry up by moving the organization into our own building. Margaret has grown the organization in so many ways and continues to do so. And beyond being our fearless leader, Margaret still prioritizes connecting with guests and volunteers, ensuring everyone feels welcomed. Laine has worn many hats throughout her time, helping the organization level set and grow. Having started in operations and volunteer management to her current role in fundraising and communications, Laine has always focused on strategy, efficacy, and impact, all while prioritizing our guests and the mission. Margaret and Laine both have made long lasting impacts to Common Pantry and we are better because of them. Congratulations Margaret and Laine!

Common Pantry made the decision to partner with and purchase from Global Gardens Chicago in 2020 to ensure we had a steady supply chain of fresh produce to distribute. We knew then the importance of supporting small farmers, stimulating our local economy, and prioritizing access to locally grown food for our guests. Since the start of our partnership, we have distributed thousands of pounds of their produce. Amidst the federal funding freezes for Local Food Purchase Assistance Cooperative Agreement (LFPA), we stand to be unharmed. However this freeze will have impacts across our local food space and raises our concerns for what other federal funding could be cut. Further SNAP reductions, continued inflation from tariffs and potential threats for Medicaid/Medicare funding to be cut are all now realities. We are watching the developments very closely and preparing as best we can. #supportlocal #endhunger #nonprofit

2024 was a year of growth at Common Pantry. All of our programs saw significant increases from years prior. We permanently added an additional distribution on Tuesdays. We launched our Nutrition Education program. We were able to feed so many families and provide other much needed services all thanks to our incredible staff, volunteers, donors and overall community. THANK YOU all for the continued hard work and support provided day in and day out. For more information about ways to volunteer, donate or support our mission, visit our website: https://lnkd.in/gCeHCwS #impact #community #endhunger #nonprofit

Who said that desserts couldn't be packed with fruits and veggies? Last week we had a packed house for our monthly cooking class where our Registered Dietitian, Morgan, showed folks how to make a yogurt parfait and a carrot cake to curb your sweet tooth but still being full of nutrients. #nutritioneducation #programming #nonprofit

We're excited to highlight our new Food Programs Manager, Morgan! Having joined the team during the busy holiday season, Morgan has jumped into her role headfirst. From menu planning and preparing hot lunches to driving for our food rescue program to pitching in with our pantry and holiday distribution, she is getting enmeshed into Common Pantry quickly. Morgan is also a Registered Dietitian and leading our nutrition program. Having taught her first class in January here is what she has to say: "I loved it! I'm looking forward to using my nutrition skills and experience and can't wait to re-incorporate sampling in February." We're lucky to have Morgan on staff. Welcome to the team! #teaming #newhire #nutrition #nonprofit

We're #hiring! We are looking for someone with a unique skillset, who will be able to help with the responsibilities that comes with owning our own building. If you're passionate about food access for all, working with a collaborative team, and interested in growing alongside, then please check out the description and steps to apply through our website under the "Get Involved" tab. Otherwise, please share among your networks!