The Food Pantry
at St. Francis

The Human Concerns Program is a homeless prevention initiative that provides support for clients facing financial hardships. When funding is available, we assist with utility and housing issues through grants from a variety of sources, including:

  • Acme Foundation

  • St. Elizabeth’s Mission Society

  • Ocean First Foundation

  • Emergency Food and Shelter Program

Our pantry receives donations from St. Francis Parish collections, local food drives, and private donors. We greatly appreciate monetary or non-perishable donations, which can be mailed or dropped off at St. Francis Community Center during regular business hours. Donations can also be made conveniently online via PayPal.

FOOD PANTRY HOURS

Monday – Thursday: 10:00 AM - 2:00 PM
Friday - Sunday: Closed

To contact the Human Concerns Food Pantry, please call 609-494-8861 ext. 171 or 172.

Stay Updated

To receive Human Concerns Food Pantry updates, text the keyword PANTRY to 833-511-0760.

Your support helps us continue to serve those in need within our community. Thank you for making a difference!

The Human Concerns Food Pantry at St. Francis Community Center is one of the largest food pantries in Ocean County, dedicated to serving families in need. Our pantry distributes food items and personal hygiene products, ensuring that individuals and families in Southern Ocean County have access to essential resources.

Annual Projects

Our pantry also supports families through various seasonal initiatives:

Spring Dinner Project
Provides 150 families with fixings to prepare an Easter Dinner.

Back-To-School Project
Supports 150 families with school-aged children, ensuring they have the essential supplies for a successful school year.

Thanksgiving Program
Provides approximately 250 families with everything needed for a traditional Thanksgiving meal.

Gift of Warmth Project
Each year, this initiative serves approximately 250 families, providing children with at least two warm clothing wishes, including shoes, snow boots, blankets, hats, gloves, scarves, and winter jackets.

THE FOOD PANTRY AT ST. FRANCIS COMMUNITY CENTER |

THE FOOD PANTRY AT ST. FRANCIS COMMUNITY CENTER |

Frequently Asked Questions

FAQ’s

  • The Food Pantry serves individuals and families in need who reside in Southern Ocean County. Proof of residency may be required during your first visit.

  • We offer non-perishable food items, personal hygiene products, and household essentials to support families facing food insecurity.

  • Donations of non-perishable items and personal care products can be dropped off at the St. Francis Community Center during regular business hours (Monday–Thursday, 10:00 AM–2:00 PM). Monetary donations can also be made online on our website.

  • Yes, when funding is available, the Human Concerns Program assists eligible clients with utility bills, housing costs, and emergency needs through grants from various sources.

  • To inquire about food, personal items, or financial assistance, call 609-494-8861 ext. 171 or 172 to speak with a program representative. We’re here to help!


How to Get Involved?

Our pantry relies on the generosity and dedication of volunteers and donors to continue serving the community. Here are ways you can help:

Volunteer: We always need helping hands for stocking shelves, distributing food, assisting with events, and organizing donations. If you’re interested, contact us at 609-494-8861 ext. 171 or 172.

Donate: Monetary and non-perishable food donations are always appreciated. You can drop off donations at St. Francis Community Center during business hours or contribute online through PayPal.

Organize a Food Drive: Gather your friends, coworkers, or community group to host a food drive benefiting our pantry.

Spread the Word: Follow us on social media and share our mission to help us reach more people in need.

Volunteer Opportunities

Our volunteers are the cornerstone of our Family Support Services. Whether you assist with community events or program support, your time helps us make a meaningful impact. Call 609-494-8861 to learn how you can help.

Contact Us

Contact Us

Breanne LaMarco, Family Support Director