Dayton Community Food Closet Facing Growing Demand Ahead Of Summer Season

DAYTON, NJ — The Dayton Community Food Closet is seeking donations as they face an increase in visitors heading into the summer season.

Started in November 2025 next to Pioneer Grange #1 in Dayton, the food closet aims to supplement the community food bank and provide much-needed food and household supplies to neighbors in need.

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According to an online post from Pioneer Grange #1 Dayton, the food closet has been a vital resource for neighbors in need, though officials have noticed an increase in traffic over the last month.

"While we are so glad that we are able to help feed our community, it is becoming difficult to keep the food closet fully stocked between the few people involved," officials said.

In order to ensure that the closet is fully stocked for those in need, the food closet has started an online fundraiser to help them buy a higher-capacity, weatherproof cabinet and keep the closet stocked for the summer and into the fall.

"Every dollar raised will help stock the closet and ensure that no one in our community goes hungry," officials said. "Please consider donating or sharing the link to support this important cause. Thank you!"

As of Thursday morning, $220 has been raised of the food closet's $1,000 goal. A link to the fundraiser can be found here.