The Full Plate Kosher Food Pantry: Celebrating 15 Years of Compassion and Community
March 19th marks a significant milestone for The Full Plate Kosher Food Pantry—a milestone of resilience, compassion, and unwavering dedication to serving the Rhode Island Jewish community. For 15 years, the pantry has provided essential support to individuals and families in need.
Established as the first-ever kosher food pantry in Rhode Island, the Full Plate Kosher Food Pantry has been a testament to the enduring values of Tikkun Olam—repairing the world—and communal solidarity. From its humble beginnings in 2009, operating out of Niantic Avenue in Providence, to its now North Main Street home at Jewish Collaborative Services (JCS), the pantry has continuously evolved to meet the progressing needs of the community.
Led by Kristany Jaycox, the pantry coordinator, and supported by a dedicated team of volunteers, the Kosher Food Pantry has become a lifeline for over 200 households each month. Open on Wednesday, Thursday, and Friday for “shopping,” and offering delivery options for those unable to visit in person, the pantry ensures that no one in the community is left behind.
The dedication and selflessness of the pantry’s volunteers have been integral to its success. From shopping and bagging food to delivering groceries and providing assistance to those in need, volunteers have played a pivotal role in upholding the pantry’s mission. Their commitment to service, serves as a testament to the spirit of community and compassion that defines the Kosher Food Pantry.
Over the years, the pantry has witnessed the profound impact of its services, particularly during times of crisis. The COVID-19 pandemic, in particular, highlighted the vital role of the Kosher Food Pantry in providing assistance to households facing unprecedented challenges. With the support of generous donors and community partners, including the Rhode Island Food Bank and Rhode Island Foundation, the pantry has been able to expand its outreach efforts and enhance its operational capabilities.
In 2022, the pantry received a $50,000 grant from the RI Foundation, which was used toward pantry improvements. This grant enabled the pantry to purchase essential equipment, such as double-door freezers and reach-in refrigerators and implement a Point of Sale (POS) system to streamline operations and improve inventory management.
As the pantry celebrates its 15th anniversary, it looks to the future with optimism and determination to serve all in need. With this milestone, let us also reflect on the journey —a journey marked by resilience, compassion, and the unwavering commitment to serving others. May the pantry continue to be a beacon of light in our community for many years to come, inspiring us all to strive for a more just and compassionate world.
Would you like to donate to The Full Plate Kosher Food Pantry?
The food pantry is always accepting food donations. Current food items that would be helpful include canned tuna and sardines, peanut butter, and toiletries. For more information, please email Kristany, the Pantry Coordinator, at Kristany@jcsri.org or call 401-331-1244.
To make a financial contribution, click here, and designate your gift to The Full Plate Kosher Food Pantry.
Interested in volunteering with the Kosher Food Pantry?
Email our Volunteer Coordinator, Laura Cole at Laura@jcsri.org