Open Cupboard Food Pantry Inc.

Open Cupboard Food Pantry is a private non-profit 501(c)(3) agency serving northern Hunterdon County. We believe we have a responsibility to fill the very basic need for food for those in need. Open Cupboard Food Pantry began as High Bridge Food Pantry in November 1993 when Anne Underhill decided to help a family in need in her church. From its simple beginnings in an actual closet at High Bridge United Methodist Church, the Pantry grew to meet the need in northern Hunterdon County, changing its name to Open Cupboard Food Pantry in 1997 to reflect its growing scope. In 2002 the Pantry moved to a retail space in High Bridge and opened a thrift shop to defray the cost of the increased rent and utilities, with any extra income dedicated to buying groceries. Recognizing the need for more space and a more visible location, the Pantry moved to its current Clinton location in 2009. Today Open Cupboard Food Pantry encompasses over 5,000 square feet of space including offices, food storage, intake areas and a client area, as well as a bright, spacious shop with 2 handicapped-accessible dressing rooms. Over 100 volunteers work in the Pantry and thrift shop. We depend entirely on donations of groceries, personal care and cleaning items for the Pantry. Monetary donations allow us to buy perishables such as meat, produce and dairy products in addition to basic groceries as needed. The shop accepts contributions of clean, gently-used or new clothing, books and household items. All proceeds from thrift shop sales are used to defray the Pantry's operating expenses and purchase groceries as needed. Freezers and refrigerators allow us to accept donations of perishable foods. The Pantry distributes USDA (United States Department of Agriculture) commodities.