Frequently asked questions
Straight answers about how Pantry works — who picks up the food, what happens when plans change, and what it costs.
Getting started
What is Pantry?
Pantry is a free platform that connects people and businesses who have surplus food with local food banks and pantries — so good food feeds neighbors instead of going to waste. You post what you have, a nearby food bank claims it, and you get an automatic tax-deductible donation receipt.
Who can donate?
Anyone with surplus food: households cleaning out the pantry, restaurants and caterers with end-of-day extras, grocers, farms, businesses of any size, and community groups — churches, schools, and offices running food drives.
Can I donate food from a food drive or group collection?
Yes — food drives, church and community-group collections, office and school drives, and neighborhood gatherings are all welcome. Post what you have collected as a single donation, note roughly what is in it, and a nearby food bank coordinates one pickup — so nobody has to sort or deliver it themselves.
Is Pantry available in my area?
Pantry is starting in Maine and expanding across New England. The fastest way to see whether a food bank near you is on Pantry is the Find Food map — search your town and it will show participating pantries and their distance from you.
Do I need to download an app?
No. Pantry runs in any web browser on your phone, tablet, or computer — there is nothing to install.
Pickup & logistics
Who picks up the food — do I have to drive it somewhere?
When a food bank claims your donation, they coordinate the handoff with you directly by message. Usually the food bank drives out to collect it, and some donors offer to drop off if that is easier — you work out what fits between you. There is no paid courier service in the loop today; the pickup is arranged directly between you and the food bank.
What happens if a pickup falls through?
Plans change, and the food does not just disappear. If a food bank claims your donation but cannot collect it in time, it automatically goes back on the board for another nearby food bank to claim, with a fresh pickup window — you do not have to chase anyone. If no one claims it before your window closes, the post expires so it cannot send someone on a wasted trip, and you can repost it in one tap. Food banks can release a claim they cannot fulfill with no penalty, and repeated no-shows get reviewed.
How will I know when something happens with my donation?
You are notified by email when a food bank claims your donation and as the handoff is being arranged, so you always know where things stand.
What food can I donate?
Safe, edible food you would be comfortable giving a neighbor — sealed packaged goods, fresh produce, bakery items, and prepared food handled safely. When you post an item, Pantry helps you categorize it and estimate its value automatically.
Cost & tax receipts
How much does Pantry cost?
Pantry is 100% free for food banks and pantries — always, with no fees and no subscriptions. It is free for donors, too.
Do I get a tax receipt?
Yes. Every donation generates an automatic donation receipt with a fair-market-value estimate calculated from USDA commodity pricing. Save it for your taxes. Pantry does not provide tax advice — check with a tax professional about your own situation.
Am I protected if I donate food in good faith?
Good-faith food donations are protected under the federal Bill Emerson Good Samaritan Food Donation Act, which shields donors from liability when they donate apparently wholesome food in good faith.
Are there extra tax benefits for businesses?
Businesses may qualify for an enhanced deduction under IRC Section 170(e)(3) — potentially deducting more than the cost basis of donated food. The business tax page has a calculator that estimates your potential savings.
For food banks & volunteers
I run a food bank or pantry — how do we join?
Register your pantry — it is free and takes a couple of minutes. Once you are on, you will see surplus food posted by homes and businesses near you and can claim what you need in a single tap, then coordinate pickup with the donor.
Can I volunteer?
Yes. Getting surplus food to neighbors takes people — drivers, gleaners, and helping hands. Tell us how you would like to help on the volunteer page and we will be in touch as opportunities open up near you.
Still have a question?
We are happy to help — reach out and a real person will get back to you.