Belonging and Inclusion

Our Commitment

As part of our mission to alleviate food insecurity in Newton, we believe all people have the right to access nutritious food. No one deserves to go hungry.

As an integral part of this community, the Newton Food Pantry opens its arms to all residents of the city regardless of their race, color, sex (including sexual orientation, gender identity and expression, and pregnancy), genetic information, religion, political views, abilities, veteran status, age or national origin. We treat those in need with compassion, dignity and respect.

Our Commitment in Action

The Newton Food Pantry supports and creates systems and resources to advance our mission of alleviating food insecurity throughout Newton. Our belonging and inclusion initiatives, which include a Diversity, Equity & Inclusion committee comprised of staff, board members and other volunteers, help put principles into practice throughout our work. 

• At our choice-shopping pantry, food quantity allowances are guided by an equity-focused distribution model. Shoppers select food based on their household size, with larger households able to choose greater quantities of most items. This approach helps ensure a fair and appropriate share of food for everyone.

• The Newton Food Pantry reflects the vibrant community we serve. Our volunteers come from a broad array of local households, making our pantry a welcoming, intergenerational and multicultural space where everyone can feel a sense of belonging. We are proud to have volunteers who are bilingual and who represent a wide range of races, ethnicities, religions, genders, sexual orientations and abilities. This diversity strengthens every aspect of our work and helps us better understand and meet the needs of our neighbors.

• The Newton Food Pantry offers a variety of culturally relevant food choices. Each week, we procure and provide foods from Eastern European, Asian and Latin markets so that shoppers can prepare meals reflective of their cultures. The Newton Food Pantry also carries a wide range of foods that meet shoppers’ distinct dietary neeeds, including tofu, almond milk, gluten free products and more.

• Inclusion is a core value that guides how we operate and how we serve. With a small staff of just five and powered by 130 dedicated volunteers, the Newton Food Pantry relies on the collective voices and contributions of its entire community to ensure everyone feels seen, heard and valued. We regularly survey both clients and volunteers to better understand their needs, preferences and experiences because we believe those closest to the work should help shape it. By fostering an inclusive environment, the Newton Food Pantry is better able to provide meaningful, dignified food assistance to the more than 2,500 local residents who count on us.