FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
The Salem Pantry Expands Collaborative Efforts in Lynn to Address Growing Food Insecurity
Salem, MA (September 25, 2025) – The Salem Pantry has seen a notable increase in the number of Lynn families seeking its services. In 2023, the Pantry served 2,340 Lynn families, totaling 8,800 individuals. In 2024, demand continues to rise, with 3,400 families and 13,175 individuals already receiving support. To meet this growing need, The Salem Pantry has expanded its partnerships and introduced creative solutions, including cross-dock services, mobile pantries, and strategic planning with local organizations.
“As more families turn to us, we’re committed to working collaboratively and thinking innovatively with our Lynn partners to ensure food access for all,” said Robyn Burns, Executive Director of The Salem Pantry. “We’re fortunate to partner with organizations deeply connected to the Lynn community, which helps us expand our reach and impact.”
The Pantry directly supports Lynn families through its partnership with the Phoenix Food Hub, operated by Greater Lynn Senior Services. Together, both organizations are developing strategic solutions that support Lynn families through both organizations’ services.
In addition, The Salem Pantry has launched a monthly mobile pantry in Lynn, created with the help of a cross-dock partner. The mobile pantry brings fresh produce, proteins, non-perishable goods, and dairy products directly into the city, increasing food access for residents.
The Pantry also collaborates with The Greater Boston Food Bank to operate cross-dock services for 20 food access organizations throughout the North Shore, including seven in Lynn. The Pantry’s Food Storage and Distribution Warehouse processes and distributes around 20,000 pounds of food monthly, ensuring these partner organizations have the resources to meet the rising demand.
“The women in recovery at our Johnson Street Women’s Program in Lynn have benefited from food provided by The Salem Pantry for many years,” said Lina Abdalla, Clinical Director of Recovery Services for Bridgewell. “Our team and the women we serve are so appreciative of this support from The Salem Pantry.”
To further enhance food offerings, The Salem Pantry also works with The Food Project to source fresh, locally grown produce, ensuring that families have access to healthy options.
The Salem Pantry’s key partners supporting the Lynn community also include St. Stephen’s Church, Project Cope, Lynn Shelter Association, Emmaus Inc. and Catholic Charities.
In August 2024, The Salem Pantry provided direct services to 1,656 Lynn families, representing over 6,500 residents. For more information on The Salem Pantry and it’s work please visit www.thesalempantry.org.
About The Salem Pantry
The Salem Pantry, recently named the 2024 Greater Boston Food Bank Community Partner of the Year, provides the North Shore with convenient access to fresh, free, healthy food. Its innovative mobile pantries, home delivery program, food distribution hub, and The Market offer abundant produce, proteins, spices, and dairy products. They partner with local farmers and health organizations to serve over 3,600 households and distribute over 300,000 pounds of food per month.