The Hingham Food Pantry, which started as a small initiative, has become a lifeline for many in the community over the past 35 years. It currently supports over 160 families, distributing an average of 1,100 bags of food each month.
One mother shared, “The pantry is an amazing resource. The volunteers are welcoming, and it feels like a happy place. It’s a confidential space for anyone who needs help.” The pantry provides a mix of meat, dairy, bakery goods, and non-perishable items, along with full dinners for Thanksgiving and the December holidays.
Support for the pantry comes from local food drives and partnerships with organizations like the Greater Boston Food Bank and South Shore Food Bank. Additionally, contributions from places such as Hingham Farmers Market and Fresh Market are vital. Community generosity keeps the pantry running smoothly.
Director Susan Kiernan has been at the heart of this initiative since it began. Originally, food was collected by St. Paul Church and distributed to local food pantries. As the need grew, Kiernan and a small team sought help from Project Bread to establish a dedicated pantry in Hingham. Thanks to community efforts, they secured space at Second Parish Church, where the pantry still operates today.
Over 100 volunteers keep things moving at the pantry. Kiernan calls them remarkable. “Most volunteers never meet the families we serve, but their dedication is crucial,” she said. “Their selfless spirit drives our mission.”
Kiernan reflects on her long-term commitment: “I’ve received so much from meeting the families and fellow volunteers. I feel lucky to be part of this journey.”
The pantry’s history shows how far it has come. It opened with just 14 families in its first days. Today, it provides food and other essential services to many. Over the years, they’ve offered not just groceries, but also back-to-school supplies and holiday gifts.
Even with all the progress, hunger remains an issue. A local family expressed gratitude for the community’s support during tough times, saying, “Knowing we have such a fabulous community means everything.” This captures the spirit of caring that defines the Hingham Food Pantry.
As the pantry moves into its next year, Kiernan expresses heartfelt thanks to all contributors — volunteers, donors, and families alike. “Together, we can combat hunger in Hingham. Every effort counts.”
For more information, you can reach Hingham Food Pantry at 781-740-8180 or via email at hinghamfood@gmail.com. They welcome anyone in need to come by for support, and details can be found on their Facebook and Instagram pages.
