Algoma Community Pantry Extends Hours, Hosts Back-to-School Event

The Algoma Community Pantry has announced an extension of its operating hours, unveiling a new schedule aimed at enhancing accessibility for local residents. Beginning on September 2, 2025, the pantry will be open from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m., Monday through Saturday. In parallel, the Food Bank will operate from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. during the same days.

To commemorate this significant change, the pantry invites the community to participate in a special Back-to-School Splash event on September 2. This celebration will not only mark the new hours but also offer families a chance to enjoy various activities designed to foster community spirit.

Wendy Gutcher, Founder of the Algoma Community Pantry, expressed enthusiasm for the extended hours, stating, “We are proud to extend our hours to make our services more accessible to the people who need them most. This is not just about providing food—it’s about creating a welcoming space where everyone feels supported.”

Event Details and Community Impact

The Back-to-School Splash event will be held at the pantry’s location at 281 North Street, Sault Ste. Marie. Families, friends, and neighbours are encouraged to come and celebrate this new chapter. The pantry is committed to assisting families and individuals in need by providing food support, building community connections, and offering hope during challenging times.

The Algoma Community Pantry operates under the philosophy of “a hand up, not a hand out,” emphasizing its role in fostering independence and dignity among its clients. The extended hours are a response to community feedback, aiming to better meet the needs of those seeking assistance.

As the pantry moves forward with its new hours, it reinforces its dedication to serving the community effectively. The addition of Saturday hours is seen as a vital step in ensuring that those who require support can access it more conveniently.

The pantry’s initiatives reflect its mission to create a safe and empowering environment for all. With the Back-to-School Splash, the Algoma Community Pantry looks to strengthen its ties with the community while continuing to provide essential services.