Beth McDermott, MetroWest DailyNews
The Sudbury Community Food Pantry celebrated the grand opening of its new headquarters at 534 Boston Post Road (Route 20) in Wayland on Thursday, Oct. 16, according to a community announcement. The move marks a significant milestone for the pantry, which has been serving MetroWest families for 35 years.
“This new home represents far more than bricks and mortar,” said John Thomas, executive director of the pantry, in a statement. “It represents stability, dignity and hope for thousands of our neighbors. It’s a promise — that when families fall on hard times, there will always be a welcoming place to turn.” State Rep. Carmine Gentile, D-Sudbury, and Sudbury Director of Public Health Vivian Zeng also spoke at the event, highlighting the pantry’s vital role in the community, especially in light of impending federal cuts to the U.S. Department of Agriculture, the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program and Medicaid programs.
Guests were invited to tour the 3,250-square-foot facility, which features ADA-compliant amenities, expanded refrigeration and freezer capacity, and flexible spaces for sorting, distribution and outreach. The building was purchased mortgage-free, thanks to the generosity of local philanthropists, foundations and community businesses, according to the announcement. It has been fully operational since mid- August, serving families from more than 85 communities. Earlier: Sudbury Community Food Pantry plans move into larger space “In 2024, we distributed over 450,000 pounds of food — enough for 30,000 grocery bags — all through the efforts of volunteers,” Thomas said in a statement. “Our volunteers are the beating heart of this organization: people giving their time and their hearts to ensure that no one in our community goes hungry.”
Founded in 1991, the Sudbury Community Food Pantry is an all-volunteer nonprofit. It provides food and
personal care items to individuals and families facing food insecurity, with no geographic boundaries, according to the announcement.
For more information about the pantry, including how to volunteer or support its work,
visit sudburyfoodpantry.org.