In the season of giving thanks, the Town of Ogden is once again demonstrating what makes this community truly special. After learning that the Spencerport Ecumenical Food Shelf had experienced a dramatic increase in calls for assistance, the Town issued an urgent call to residents, and they responded with overwhelming generosity, filling donation bins at Town Hall and the Ogden Farmers’ Library multiple times in just a few days.
“What we have seen this week is the spirit of Ogden at its finest,” said Town Supervisor Mike Zale. “Our residents did not hesitate for a moment. They stepped up, donated, and completely restocked the shelves for families in need. I could not be prouder of this community or more grateful for the kindness that continues to define Ogden.”
The Spencerport Ecumenical Food Shelf, supported by several local churches, provides essential groceries to families and individuals facing food insecurity. In recent months, the number of requests for help has risen sharply, reflecting the growing need across the region.
“Even a small donation can make a big difference for a family struggling to put food on the table,” Zale added. “It is a reminder that we all have something to give, whether it’s a can of soup, a jar of peanut butter, or a few hours of our time.”
The Town’s emergency food drive helped restock the pantry with hundreds of items, including peanut butter, canned vegetables, pasta, and other essentials. Although the drive has concluded, the need continues year-round, and residents are encouraged to keep the momentum going. Due to the incredible response from residents, the Town is also working to add a permanent donation box at Town Hall.
The Spencerport Ecumenical Food Shelf is a partnership of several local churches, including St. John’s, First Congregational UCC, Trinity Lutheran, Spencerport Wesleyan, Spencerport United Methodist, Ogden Presbyterian, Ogden Baptist, and Adams Basin United Methodist. A list of year-round donation sites is provided below.
Year-Round Donation Locations:
Food Shelf, 4997 Ridge Rd. West (rear of church), Thursdays from 9 to 11 a.m.
St. John’s, 55 Martha St. (bin inside left front door), 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Ogden Baptist, 721 Washington St., Tuesdays from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m.
Spencerport United Methodist, 30 Amity St. (collection basket outside the church)
Dollar General, 5103 W. Ridge Rd.
Tops Friendly Market, 27 Slayton Ave.
Ogden Senior Center, 200 S. Union St.
Spencerport Wesleyan Church, 2653 Nichols St. (donation basket inside)
For more information about the Spencerport Ecumenical Food Shelf and ways to donate, visit spencerportfoodshelf.org or contact a participating church.
The Town’s next fundraising initiative will support the Pirate Toy Fund. Residents can drop off toys they wish to donate at the Pirate Toy Fund collection box located outside the Town Receptionist’s Office at Ogden Town Hall during regular business hours.
