Food Distribution

General Food Pantry for Families & Individuals

Open Monday, Wednesday, and Thursday, 10:00 a.m.–1:00 p.m., and Tuesdays 10:00 a.m.–4:00 p.m., the Gardner CAC pantry provides groceries to families and individuals in need. Recipients must reside in Gardner, Ashburnham, Hubbardston, or Westminster. Please note that on the third Wednesday of the month, the pantry is open only to seniors, age 60+, from 9:00 a.m.–Noon. See details below.

Find out if you are eligible by completing the application online or applying at our office. Approved applicants may utilize the services once a month. More frequent use may apply in emergency situations.

Senior Food Pantry for People 60+

On the third Wednesday of each month, the Gardner CAC pantry is open only to seniors, age 60 plus from 9:00 a.m.–Noon. The Senior Food Pantry distributes a selection of groceries geared more toward senior health, including lower-sodium foods. Seniors (60+) who reside in Gardner, Ashburnham, Hubbardston, and Westminster may apply. 

The Senior Bean Bag program is the first Wednesday of the month with pick up at the Gardner Senior Center. 

NOTE: To apply for either the General or Senior Food Distribution click on the button above to complete and submit the Intake Application online. Contact us at 978-632-8700 for assistance.


Volunteer at the Food Pantry

We need volunteers. Every month, when food distribution trucks arrive, several people help us to unload the trucks and stock the shelves. On a daily basis, we need volunteers who can pack the individual boxes with groceries for distribution to families and individuals who need food. To learn more about our volunteer opportunities, please visit our Volunteer page where you can download and complete a volunteer application. Thank you for your consideration.


Gardner CAC's Mission

The Mission of the Gardner Community Action Committee, Inc. is to provide services and resources to those in need.

Our core values:

Respect. 

We embrace diversity and treat everyone with kindness and compassion.

Volunteers.

We believe that they are our most valuable asset and that volunteerism is mutually beneficial.

Relationships. 

Being responsible with funding, donations and resources helps us to maintain positive relationships in the community and with one another.