Community Food Pantry

Since its inception in 2022, the New Settlement Community Food Pantry has emerged as a vital force in the battle against hunger during the COVID-19 pandemic. Nestled within the New Settlement Community Center, our pantry serves as a beacon of hope for multiple neighborhoods in the South Bronx, offering a haven where locals can access nutritious food free of charge while learning about long-term strategies to combat hunger and poor nutrition. Staffed predominantly by community members, our team possesses an intimate understanding of the needs of our neighbors, ranging from families in after-school programs to older individuals participating in community organizing initiatives. In the face of escalating food insecurity intensified by the challenges of COVID and housing strains, our pantry dispenses over 200 bags of food weekly, prioritizing healthy, nutrient-dense options to nourish our community. We empower our neighbors to make informed dietary choices through cooking demonstrations and nutritional education, fostering a culture of health and well-being. Anchored within our broader Community Health Initiatives, our pantry stands as a cornerstone in our holistic approach to addressing systemic inequities in food access, intertwining with affordable housing, education, youth development, economic empowerment, and community organizing efforts. As we continue to grow and adapt, our mission remains unwavering: to provide sustenance, support, and empowerment to all those affected by food insecurity in the Mt. Eden community and beyond.

Times that the Food Pantry is active:

Saturdays 10:30 am – 1:00 pm. 

From May 6, 2024, to June 15, 2024, the Community Food Pantry will only distribute food on Saturdays. Saturdays will continue to be on a 
first-come first-serve basis as long as supplies last. Saturday pantry days will operate between 10:30 am and 1:00 pm at the New Settlement Community Center.

Also, on select dates, the Saturday pantry will be relocated to participate in the Department of Transportation’s Open Streets Initiative on Goble Place (the other side of the community center campus). On these days, the hours of operation will be between 12:00 pm and 3:00 pm. Please be on the lookout for more information regarding Open Streets and the resources and activities you and your family can enjoy. The expected dates and themes for the upcoming Open Streets events are listed below:

  • May 11 – Mother’s Day 
  • May 18 – Legal Fair
  • June 15 – Juneteenth

To prepare and reset for the summer programming, the Community Food Pantry will be closed on June 22, 2024, and June 29, 2024.

While the Community Food Pantry will no longer operate on Thursdays and Fridays, we want to ensure everyone can access food. To receive a list of alternative food pantries, please visit My Bronx Impact to look for a food pantry near you.

How to set up an appointment for the Pantry:

Walk-ins on Saturdays do not require appointments, but if there are Open Streets events, patrons can call (718) 758 – 5901 for early registration or walk-in.