News
At Tri-County United Way, we are proud to support organizations that make a real difference in the lives of our neighbors across Washington, Warren, and Saratoga counties. One such partner is the Comfort Food Community (CFC) in Greenwich, a truly inspiring organization working tirelessly to address food insecurity with compassion, innovation, and a deep commitment to community.
A History Rooted in Care
Comfort Food Community began humbly in 2014 as the Greenwich Food Pantry, started by dedicated volunteers from the Emergency Relief Committee. Since formally becoming a nonprofit in 2015, CFC has grown remarkably. Today, it operates not just as a food pantry, but as a multi-faceted resource hub for fresh food access, nutrition education, food recovery, and community engagement.
Their main Food Center, located on Route 40 in Greenwich, and the larger Food & Farm Hub on Fiddlers Elbow Road are testaments to the organization’s dedication to meeting increasing needs in our region.
Programs That Nourish and Empower
CFC’s programs reflect a holistic approach to food insecurity. They include:
- The Greenwich Food Pantry and the Cossayuna Pantry, offering regular access to nutritious food for hundreds of families weekly, with an emphasis on fresh, local produce alongside staples.
- Farm 2 Library Initiatives, distributing fresh fruits and vegetables at local libraries to reach even more residents.
- Supplemental Nutrition for Students, ensuring children don’t go hungry on weekends and school breaks through meal and snack programs.
- Food Recovery Efforts, salvaging surplus from farms and retailers to reduce waste and feed those in need.
- Farm 2 School and Farm 2 Pantry Programs, which support local farmers while improving food quality in schools and other pantries.
Impact on Our Community
In 2024 alone, Comfort Food Community distributed over 1 million pounds of food, a staggering figure that highlights both the demand and the organization’s capacity to meet it. Pantry visits have increased significantly, seeing a 20% increase year after year.
For many families, the pantry is a lifeline; for others, the community programs provide education, connection, and hope. CFC’s partnership with more than 70 local farms, distributors, and organizations strengthens the local economy while improving access to healthy food, embodying the kind of collaborative, sustainable solution that Tri-County United Way values deeply.
Our Partnership and Support
We recognize the challenges CFC faces, including increasing demand, infrastructure needs for storage and distribution, and the necessity of stable funding sources.
Together, we are committed to ensuring that no neighbor in our tri-county region must wonder where their next meal will come from. Comfort Food Community’s model, emphasizing dignity, fresh food, education, and community partnership, aligns with our mission to improve lives and strengthen communities.
Looking Ahead
Looking AheadAs food insecurity remains a pressing issue, the role of Comfort Food Community continues to grow. Tri-County United Way encourages residents and businesses alike to support this vital organization through donations, volunteering, and spreading the word.
With your help, Comfort Food Community will continue to expand access to nutritious food, reduce waste, and build a stronger, healthier Greenwich and surrounding areas. Comfort Food Community offers tours of their Food & Farm Hub on the second Wednesday of every month at 10 am for anyone who wants a behind-the-scenes look and learn more about getting involved.