The Warwick Public Library maintains and stocks the Community Food Pantry to make food available to all members of the community in need. While this is a partnership with FeedRI through their Feed and Read Program, the Library is dependent on donations from residents, patrons, local organizations and businesses. In making the pantry accessible to all as a shared resource, we recognize and respect the privacy and confidentiality of those using it.
Donations
The Library will provide a list of the most up-to-date “needed items” to help stock the pantry in the monthly e-newsletter, the Library’s website, and signage within the building.
All donations are to be brought to a blue donation hamper that is located near the Welcome and Reference Desks in the Central Library. The Library is unable to include perishable items in the pantry. Food items in glass containers should be avoided.
A wide range of unexpired, non-perishable items are accepted for the Community Food pantry, including: shelf-stable milk; canned fruit, vegetables, beans, and meat; peanut butter and jelly; pasta and pasta sauce; and small snack items.
NOTE: Items that have been opened or partially used or are past their use by date cannot be included in the pantry.
Using the Pantry
The pantry operates on a take-what-you-need basis. We ask users to only take what they need for their own use or for their family and loved ones. If there are multiples of one item, was ask that users not “stock up” by taking all of them. The pantry is used every day and our goal is to serve as many community members in need as possible.
Any items from the pantry that are for immediate use may be consumed in the Library, but should be done so with care to help keep the Library clean. Tables and spaces used for eating should be left clean and all garbage should be disposed of in provided bins throughout the building.
Approved by Warwick Public Library Board of Trustees 9/30/2025