Anyone who's in dire need of food or can't afford groceries on a regular basis is welcome. You'll need to call ahead before your first visit to register for food access services.
Catholic Charities Yawkey Center Food Pantry
Who Can Visit?
This pantry offers emergency food help and is open to anyone who doesn't have enough food. Catholic Charities Boston welcomes people of all faiths and backgrounds. No appointment is needed. When you visit, it helps to bring proof of your name and address, such as a bill, bank statement, driver's license, or lease. If other people live with you, bring their names and dates of birth if you can, such as from an insurance card.
Items Needed for Registration
When possible, bring:
- Proof of your name and address (a bill, bank statement, driver's license, or lease)
- Names and dates of birth of everyone else in your household (an insurance card works well)
Good to Know
The pantry runs on a first-come, first-served basis and opens twice each day: a morning session (10 am to noon) and a shorter afternoon session (1 pm to 2 pm). Bags tend to be heavy, so it's a good idea to bring a cart or arrange a ride. You can also sign up for SMS text alerts to get notified about emergency closures or hours changes.
Food & Essentials
Visitors describe receiving generous bags filled with high-quality, name-brand whole foods. Items distributed have included canned goods, milk, bread, juice, eggs, meat, and fresh fruit.
How to Pick Up
Show up at the start of the morning or afternoon session. Distribution is first-come, first-served. Staff and volunteers will assist you and you'll leave with a packed bag of groceries.
Additional Support
- SNAP enrollment: Staff can help you apply for SNAP (Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program) or renew your benefits. Call (617) 506-6628 to schedule an appointment.
- Holiday food: Families who can't afford holiday meals can receive special food packages for Thanksgiving and other holidays. Call (617) 506-6600 for details.
- ESOL classes: Adult English for Speakers of Other Languages (ESOL) classes are offered at the Yawkey Center (same address). Call the program or visit the ESOL page to learn how to enroll.
- High school equivalency: Catholic Charities offers High School Equivalency (HiSET/GED) preparation programs. Visit the High School Equivalency page to learn more.
- Child care: The Yawkey Child Care Center is located at the same address (185 Columbia Rd.). Contact Catholic Charities at (617) 464-8500 for enrollment information.
Ways to Give
Catholic Charities Boston welcomes food donations and grocery store gift cards at this Dorchester pantry. You can give online, call (617) 464-8508, or mail a check payable to Catholic Charities Boston to 275 West Broadway, Boston, MA 02127. To coordinate a food donation drop-off, email giving@ccab.org. More options, including vehicle donation and planned giving, are on their website.
How to Join the Team?
Volunteers at the Yawkey Center Food Pantry help with food distribution, restocking shelves, assisting clients with product selection, preparing bags, checking in clients, and light cleaning. Shifts are available Monday through Friday (mornings and afternoons) and Saturday mornings. To sign up, visit volunteer.ccab.org, fill out an individual volunteer form or a group volunteer form, or email volunteer@ccab.org.
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