Responding to Food Insecurity, Pantry Launches Donor Campaign

COOPERSTOWN—Cooperstown resident Ellen St. John founded the Cooperstown Food Pantry in 1977. At first, donated food was stored in a cupboard in the Village Library, and then St. John would distribute it to neighbors facing hunger. Over the years, the pantry has grown in scope and services. Otsego County neighbors in need can receive a monthly distribution of food, which includes fresh produce, frozen meat and fresh dairy.

The pantry, now located at 25 Church Street in Cooperstown, is open Monday through Saturday and serves the entirety of Otsego County.

So far in 2024, CFP has served an average of 185 households, equating to about 634 people per month, a 35 percent increase over 2023.

“This increase in demand, driven by high prices for housing, food, and childcare, led the pantry’s Board to establish the Ellen’s Cupboard Society,” explained Will Kleffner, executive director of the Cooperstown Food Pantry. “We are seeking people who will help us achieve our mission to address poverty and hunger throughout Otsego County.”