Community pantries to support food access in several neighbourhoods

A new program aims to enhance local food security by providing community members in need with more direct food access. Community food pantries are now installed in three locations across Kingston as part of a pilot project to increase options for low-barrier food access.

In a similar format to free community libraries, these food pantries provide space for individuals to leave or take fresh produce and non-perishable foods. The community food pantry model combines community donations with connections to locally grown produce through the Kingston Community Garden Network.

The pantries operate on a ‘take what you need, leave what you can’ approach that reduces stigma and fills gaps left by traditional food programs.

"We’re pleased to work with local partners to help address immediate food access needs directly within neighbourhoods,” says Ben Leslie, Community Development Coordinator. “The community pantry model offers a collaborative approach to community-led food solutions. This type of support meets people where they are and helps individuals access healthy foods at any time.”

The program aligns with the ‘Food Access’ pillar of the City’s broader Food Framework, which City Council approved in May 2025. The community pantries were approved in Report 26-001 through the Food Systems Funding. The funding is designed to strengthen the local food system by supporting initiatives that directly benefit the community by improving access to healthy, affordable and culturally relevant foods.

The pantries are managed by community partners including Bloom Skills Centre, Queen’s University and The Mess Studio. Each pantry has been allocated $5,000 in Food Systems Funding for initial materials and food purchases; the goal is to supplement inventory through community donations and community garden surplus.

Find a food pantry

Individuals are encouraged to donate and/or take food from the pantries, which are available in the following locations:

• Bloom Skills Centre via Lakeside Community Garden (100 Days Rd.)
• Queen’s West Campus (535 Union St.)
  • Open to any students and staff experiencing food insecurity. Intended for West Campus, but available to all Queen's students.
• The Mess Studio (St. Andrew’s Church, 130 Clergy St. E.)

Hours of operation may vary at each community pantry; please contact the organizations directly for more information. Find these food pantries and other local food resources on the City’s Food Supports page.

Donate food

Donations are gratefully accepted at all community pantry locations.

The following food types are accepted at community pantries:

• Fresh fruits and vegetables
• Canned goods
• Dried foods

The following food types are not accepted at community pantries:

• Foods that require refrigeration or freezing (e.g., prepared meals, frozen fruits and vegetables, dairy, eggs, meat, etc.)