Drive-Thru Pantry in Wooster Offers Free Food to Families in Need
The Wayne County Health Department is teaming up with the Akron-Canton Regional Foodbank to tackle food insecurity. They’ll host a drive-thru food pantry on January 13 from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. in Wooster. This initiative aims to provide free food to eligible families who need it most.
In 2025, the monthly pop-up pantry served around 1,500 families. Nicholas Cascarelli, the health commissioner, highlighted the ongoing problem of food insecurity for many in Wayne County. “This collaboration is essential,” he said, emphasizing the pressing need in the community.
To qualify for food assistance, individuals must have an income at or below 200% of the Federal Poverty Level. In simple terms, this means a single person can earn up to $30,120 a year and still qualify. For a family of four, the limit is $62,400.
If you can’t make it to the pantry, there are other options to get food. Visit Wayne County Health for information on additional times and locations.
For those planning to attend, please enter the pantry via the alley off Walnut Street, as it’s designed for easy one-way access.
The need for assistance is more critical than ever. According to a recent report from Feeding America, about 38 million people in the U.S. experienced food insecurity in 2021. This statistic illustrates how widespread the problem is, affecting many communities across the nation.
The increase in food pantries, like the one in Wooster, reflects a growing awareness and effort to combat hunger locally. Community support through volunteering can make a big difference, too. Interested volunteers can contact the Wayne County Health Department at 330-264-9590 ext. 207 for more information.
Organizations like the Akron-Canton Regional Foodbank play a vital role in this effort, showcasing how local partnerships can make a real difference in combating hunger.
By working together, communities like Wooster are taking steps to ensure that families have access to essential food, helping to alleviate the burden of food insecurity for many.
