A few blocks from City Hall, there’s a small store with a welcoming vibe. Inside, shelves hold basics like canned goods and masa harina for making tamales. Fresh produce and an array of frozen foods can be found in the coolers. It might look like any grocery store, but there’s a twist: everything is free.
This is the Centro Mercado food pantry, part of Centro Cultural, a Latino community organization in Cornelius, Oregon. For over 50 years, they’ve worked to support the needs of local residents. Centro Mercado caters particularly to the Latino community, while remaining open to anyone who needs help.
Gladis Vasquez, who runs the pantry, has deep ties to the community. She remembers visiting food pantries as a child with her family. “My mom would go to a food pantry just a couple blocks from here,” she recounts. That childhood experience motivates her to help others in similar situations.
At Centro Mercado, there are no strict criteria to access food. Anyone can visit, whether they’re struggling financially or just need a little help. Vasquez emphasizes, “We don’t judge anyone’s situation. If you need food, you’re welcome here.” Many visitors come from surrounding towns, attracted by the pantry’s unique shopping experience.
Unlike traditional food pantries where clients receive pre-packed bags, Centro Mercado allows visitors to choose what they want. This model fosters dignity and self-sufficiency, letting people pick items that suit their needs and preferences.
Research shows that around 400,000 Oregonians faced food insecurity in 2023. As grocery prices continue to rise, many families find themselves in tough situations. According to Centro Cultural’s program manager, visitor numbers have surged from about 80-120 people per day to around 160. The pantry serves families with children, individuals facing homelessness, and those from various backgrounds.
Interestingly, the pantry has adapted its offerings based on community feedback. Early on, it provided generic food items, but many visitors were unfamiliar with those foods. Now, they focus on culturally relevant options like Maseca, rice, beans, and fresh produce. When unsure about how to prepare unfamiliar vegetables, staff guide visitors on simple recipes.
Most of Centro Mercado’s food comes from partnerships with the Oregon Food Bank and local grocery stores. Donations have been critical as people increasingly seek help.
Gladis finds joy in supporting her neighbors. She loves sorting through donations and making sure the shelves are stocked. “Once the fridges are full, it makes me happy,” she shares. Connecting with visitors helps break down barriers and foster trust within the community.
Many people grapple with the stigma around accessing food assistance. Vasquez hopes to change perceptions, helping individuals understand that they shouldn’t feel ashamed for needing help. “No one should go a day without eating,” she insists.
Ultimately, Centro Mercado stands as a beacon of support, adapting to meet the unique needs of its community. By prioritizing dignity and cultural relevance in its offerings, the pantry isn’t just providing food; it’s nurturing connections and fostering a sense of belonging for all who enter.
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Latino | Food | Community
