Food Drive

First wednesday food drive

Overview & Mission

The First Wednesday Food Drive is an initiative sponsored by the North Center Neighbors Association and the Compassion in Action (CIA) committee. Food is a fundamental human right, much like air and water. Yet hunger and food insecurity are widespread right now. Our community can help be part of the solution by donating to our friends at Common Pantry. They continue to provide food and social services to more people than ever.


Through our partnership with Common Pantry, we organize and provide convenient drop-off porches so that neighbors can easily donate to those in need each month (the first Wednesday). We've helped Common Pantry serve food and necessities to over 7,000 households. 

Donation Items


Some of the most needed items include: 

  • baking supplies - flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda etc.
  • nuts
  • olive oil
  • canned fruit
  • whole grain crackers
  • low sodium soup
  • ground coffee
  • spaghetti sauce (low sodium)
  • dry pasta
  • rice
  • cereal (whole grain, less sugar varieties)
  • low sodium easy prep meals - like Hamburger Helper
  • peanut butter & jelly


  • shaving cream
  • cleaning supplies, laundry detergent & zip lock bags
  • full-size bottles of shampoo
  • soap
  • toothpaste, toothbrushes & mouthwash
  • deodorant
  • feminine hygiene products
  • diapers - baby, toddler & adult sizes 
  • toilet paper


Donation Dates

May - April 24th through May 1st


June - May 29th through June 5th


July - TBD


August - July 31st through August 7th


September - August 28th through September 4th


October - September 25th through October 2nd


November - October 30th through November 6th


December - November 27th through December 4th

Donation Drop Off Porches


You may drop off your items on the front porch of one of the following addresses and the CIA committee will arrange to bring the food to Common Pantry.

May Porches

Neighbor Porch Location
C. Bregitzer 1928 W. Bradley
K. Catalanotte 2456 W. Pensacola
E. Friend 4127 N. Claremont
B. Harman 4115 N. Maplewood
B. Katubig 1929 W. Belle Plaine
M. Leigh 4319 N. Wolcott
S. Reed 2104 W. Bradley

Common Pantry


To learn more about Common Pantry or if you prefer to make a monetary donation, please visit them here. 

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