2% for Astoria Food Pantry
Championing mutual aid and providing resources for those in need.
As part of our ongoing commitment to community, Loisa donates 2% of online sales each month to a community organization. This month, in honor of the holiday season, we are supporting the Astoria Food Pantry, an organization that provides mutual aid to the community by providing resources to those in need.
Astoria Food Pantry isn’t just a place to get groceries or clothing—it’s a community-driven hub that embodies solidarity and collective care. Born out of the COVID-19 pandemic, this grassroots initiative has grown into a vital space where neighbors support each other, not just to survive but to thrive. Located at 25-82 Steinway Street, the Pantry is rooted in principles of mutual aid and community care.
A Response to Crisis
The seeds of Astoria Food Pantry were planted in the early days of the pandemic when three neighbors recognized the immense challenges ahead. They started by distributing food from the back of a car outside a local public school. This small yet impactful act of care quickly grew as more people joined their efforts.
Astoria Mutual Aid Network, the larger initiative that houses the Pantry, stepped up by delivering groceries, sewing masks, and checking in on vulnerable neighbors. It was a time of uncertainty, but the people of Astoria banded together to ensure no one was left behind. Astoria Food Pantry started as an all-volunteer run organization, and today it remains the same.
Solidarity, Not Charity
At its core, Astoria Food Pantry operates on the principle of solidarity. The organization recognizes that issues like food insecurity, housing instability, and systemic inequality are interconnected. Instead of simply offering charity, the Pantry works to address the root causes of these problems through direct aid and advocacy.
Here is a list of the resources they provide:
At 25-82 Steinway St
- Food Pantry - Mondays 8am-11am
- Rolling Library - Mondays 6pm-8pm
- Free Store - Wednesdays 11:30am-2:30pm & 4:30pm-6:30pm (closed 1st Wednesday of each month)
- Diaper Distributions - 2nd Monday of each month, 8am until we run out
Around The City
- Astoria Houses - Tuesdays 11:30am-1:30pm
- Queensbridge Houses - Fridays 12pm-1pm
- Community Fridges - in Astoria and beyond
- Other Mutual Aid Resources - around NYC
This philosophy is evident in their stance on critical social issues. The Pantry champions investment in community care. They believe that celebrating differences and fostering inclusivity are essential for creating a thriving, equitable society.
Looking Ahead
Astoria Food Pantry is a shining example of what can be accomplished when a community comes together. Its founders and volunteers are driven by the belief that no one should face hardship alone and that mutual care strengthens the entire neighborhood.
As the world grapples with ongoing challenges, Astoria Food Pantry is preparing for the future. By addressing systemic issues like gentrification, underfunded public housing, and economic inequality, they hope to ensure that their community emerges stronger and more united from every crisis.
If you’re in Astoria or nearby, consider getting involved—whether by volunteering, donating, or simply spreading the word. Together, we can continue to build a community where everyone has what they need to live with dignity and hope.
Learn More:
Learn more about getting help or giving help with Astoria Food Pantry here.
Donate:
Astoria Food Pantry accepts donations in the form of money, food, supplies, and more. Learn more about donating here.
Volunteer:
Astoria Food Pantry is always looking for volunteers, both in-person and remote. Get information about volunteering here.
Follow Astoria Food Pantry:
Stay updated on Astoria Food Pantry by following their Instagram page.
