Neighbors helping neighbors is what Montclair’s Human Needs Food Pantry is all about.
Since 1982, the pantry, located at 9 Label Street in Montclair, has been supplying food, clothing, housewares, and more to those in need throughout the greater Montclair area. And since the pandemic, the number of people the pantry serves has been steadily increasing.
In 2023, the Human Needs Food Pantry registered 1,422 new households to serve. In 2024, they registered 1,817 new households. This January alone, the pantry registered 120 new households.
Fight Hunger
Food insecurity is a big issue in New Jersey. In 2022, over 994,000 people were estimated to be experiencing it, lacking adequate food in quality, quantity, or both. Last month alone, the Human Needs Food Pantry provided food weekly to about 3,000 people.
The resources needed to serve this many people add up. In 2024, the pantry distributed over one million pounds of food. This does not include in-kind donations from supermarkets.
The pantry spends hundreds of thousands of dollars on food alone every year. Donations of staple food items, like cereal, pasta, or soup, are greatly appreciated. Check the accepted donations here.
The Right Clothes Make the Difference
Upstairs at the Human Needs Food Pantry is a “thrift shop” where clients can select free, clean clothing and shoes for men, women, and children. Housewares, including linens, kitchen utensils and small appliances, are also available.
This free thrift shop relies on community donations. The good news? Since the pandemic, donations of clothing have increased.
What’s also increased are the number of “fast fashion” items coming through in donations. These garments tend to be lower quality, often breaking down after just a few wears, and are usually produced by people who aren’t being paid enough for their work.
Items that are damaged or of extremely low-quality, aren’t suitable for anyone to wear. And with limited space, the pantry can’t store most out-of-season items. It also makes extra work for volunteers who have to find other organizations to take these unwanted items or dispose of them. If you’re still not sure if what you plan to donate is needed, read these guidelines.
The Basics
A great way to help is by donating those key essential items.
In addition to food and clothing, the Human Needs Food Pantry also provides toiletries to those who need them. Donations of diapers and baby wipes, as well as soap, shampoo, toothbrushes and toothpaste, and other toiletries are always needed. Pet food donations also welcome.
As the number of people the pantry serves grows, the town’s support becomes increasingly important to provide both much-needed funding and donations. If you’re able to donate, please consider it! Giving to the pantry means giving to a neighbor.
To Donate
Food and clothing donations are accepted every Tuesday and Thursday from 9am – 12pm and the second Saturday each month from 10am – 12pm. The next weekend donating day is March 8.
