Neighbors Pantry @ Anaheim United Methodist Church

Neighbors Pantry strives to live the Second Harvest Food Bank's mission statement as we serve our community. We are a purpose-driven organization committed to doing whatever it takes to ensure all are well fed. Providing dignified, equitable and consistent access to nutritious food creates a foundation for community health and is a catalyst for societal transformation.

Neighbors Pantry is a vibrant food ministry operated on the campus of Anaheim United Methodist Church (AUMC) in Anaheim, California. AUMC provides the Neighbors Food Pantry with operational space and various groups within the church provide monetary contributions, food items and volunteer hours.

Our goal is to end hunger in the region. Especially for vulnerable populations like children, working families, homeless, college students, and seniors.

• Founded in 2020 in response to the COVID pandemic, it evolved from a longstanding small-scale food assistance program previously operated by AUMC for over a decade.
• Neighbors Pantry provides access to produce, dairy, meat, and self-stable food to approximately 550 households and 35 homeless each week.
• To enhance dignity, minimize food waste, and improve guest satisfaction, we offer guests the opportunity to choose the food products they receive.
• 100% volunteer operated by approximately 95 volunteers, many of which are clients who offer their assistance along with church members.
• Every week, volunteers pick up from 27 grocery stores that provide edible but not sellable food that would otherwise go to waste.
• We partner with Second Harvest Food Bank, Lion's Club, Vocational Innovations, Love Anaheim, Caterina’s Club, Katella Community School, and Bento.