Official Mission Statement
Our purpose is to provide supplemental food, toiletries, household supplies, and other assistance to neighbors in need in Chester and Mendham. ​

From The Beginning

Where We Are Now

Under Mayor Ben Spinelli, in 1999, the establishment of the Mayor's Coalition of Community Service Organization was created. The Mayor's Coalition contained members from different Church organizations, civic organizations, and anyone else to looked to aid the community. This group met quarterly to discuss the growing need of these organizations to help community members in times of financial need. In 2001, this realization stemmed into the idea of the creation of a food pantry. 

The pantry effort began to get organized by Buddy Castillo, Chair of the Mayor's Coalition, Jacki Spinelli (wife to the Mayor,) and community member Pat Durkin. The Pantry began out of Jacki's basement. This was not an ideal location, but the Pantry soon moved into a space in the Country Store at Larison's Turkey Farm. After a short period of time, it was easy to recognize that the Pantry would need to expand even more. 

In 2003, the Pantry purchased its current home next to the Chester First Aid Squad building. The Pantry is still located at this building and thriving. Community support is booming, and continues to increase with help from local businesses, schools, and organizations. 

Now, the Pantry provides for over 20 families through deliveries and along with 35 walk-in families monthly. There are countless hardworking volunteers that sort and deliver food, as well as manage food drives and collection bins. Jacki Spinelli continues to spearhead the CM Pantry operation, and will always appreciate the love and support the community brings into helping others. 
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