How We Do It
The Reading-West Windsor Food Shelf strives to ensure that all members of the community have adequate amounts of nutritious food and that it is provided to them in a manner that preserves their dignity. Additionally, the Food Shelf assists families in applying for 3SquaresVT, the state food stamp program, as well as other local funds that emerge to help people in crisis.
The Reading-West Windsor Food Shelf keeps expenses low due to its all-volunteer workforce and the low-cost space and utilities provided by the Town of Reading. West Windsor gives us a town appropriation each year. We have many generous monetary donors. Food expenses are kept to a minimum (consistent with providing an excellent selection and quantity of nutritious food) by:
Maximizing the amount of free and low cost food that is obtained from the Vermont Food Bank.
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Receiving produce from individuals who plant extra rows in their gardens for RWWFS. We have also regularly acquired produce through Food Bank pick-up sites as well as generous produce donations from Woodstock Farmers Market and Willing Hands.
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Accepting donated eggs and locally grown meat from community farmers.
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Arranging with local stores to purchase their goods at cost or near cost.
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Maintaining relationships with a local church and synagogue that donate food and personal hygiene products.
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Accepting donations as appropriate from area residents (e.g. canned food that has not expired).
By providing food to those in need, the Food Shelf provides a safety net and a helping hand to our most at-risk neighbors.
Please join us by donating money, donating goods or volunteering.