Food Pantries In High Demand, Officials Ask For Donations In Chester

CHESTER, NJ — The Chester and Mendham Food Pantry is seeing an increase in need as food prices rise due to inflation, but donations have not increased to meet the demand.

The center, located at 100 North Road in Chester, serves the greater Mendham and Chester communities. The pantry purchased its current location, next to the Chester First Aid Squad building, in 2003.

The food pantry serves over 20 families through deliveries and 35 walk-in families on a monthly basis. "Our shelves are getting bare and the need is increasing. Summer is a tough time," the Chester and Mendham Food Pantry said in a Facebook post.

The following is a list of the most needed items:

• Toilet paper
• Shampoo
• Cereal
• Peanut Butter
• Juice
• Cookies
• Paper towels
• Laundry detergent
• Mac & cheese
• Crackers
• Dish detergent
• Snacks

"We appreciate all donations of non-perishable food items as well as hygiene products, health and beauty aids and paper products. We cannot accept items that are opened or that are past their expiration dates," said the food pantry.

The Chester and Mendham Food Pantry was founded in 2001, following the formation of the Mayor's Coalition of Community Service Organizations. The Mayor's Coalition included members from various Church organizations, civic organizations, and other community members looking to help the community.

The coalition met quarterly to discuss the organization's growing need to assist community members in financial need, which led to the creation of a food pantry in 2001.

"Our purpose is to provide supplemental food, toiletries, household supplies and other assistance to neighbors in need in Chester and Mendham," said the food pantry.