PORTSMOUTH — The Aquidneck Food Pantry served 530 families representing 1,876 people in August, as the all-volunteer organization continued to see strong demand for food assistance.

Among those served were 726 children, according to the pantry’s September newsletter. Of the families receiving assistance, 290 included children and 135 had more than four people in the household. The pantry also welcomed 29 new families during the month.

The pantry, located at 137 Chase Road in Portsmouth, provides fresh food, dairy products, eggs, bread, produce and nonperishable groceries to individuals and families facing food insecurity.

As it works to keep up with demand, the pantry is seeking local businesses and other organizations willing to sponsor food collection boxes. Those interested in participating can contact Marcella Bauer at 401/835-2678 or the pantry at 401/683-3674.

On Aug. 29, Aquidneck Food Pantry volunteers assisted the Citizens Pell Bridge Run by distributing bibs and T‑shirts to registered race participants for the check‑in event hosted at Ragged Island Brewery. Volunteers helped ensure a smooth and welcoming experience for runners, joggers, and walkers preparing for the race held the following day. The pantry was selected as the official charitable …

Courtesy of the Aquidneck Food Pantry

Thanks to supporters

The pantry credited a wide range of community supporters for helping it meet the need during August and September.

The Van Beuren Charitable Foundation awarded the organization a $5,000 capacity-building grant, while the Watchkeeper Motorcycle Club of Rhode Island contributed $500 from its 11th annual charity ride. Clements’ Marketplace employees donated a pallet of canned vegetables through a staff-funded charitable program.

Hope’s Harvest and Farm Fresh Rhode Island also provided approximately 1,000 pounds of corn during August and September, while home gardeners continued donating tomatoes, cucumbers, peppers, eggplant, zucchini, herbs and other fresh produce.

Ink, toner cartridges needed

The pantry is also accepting used ink and toner cartridges through the Staples recycling program, which generates money to support its mission.

Food donations may be dropped off at 137 Chase Road on Wednesdays and Fridays from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Monetary donations are also accepted.

For more information, visit www.aquidneckfoodpantry.org.