St. Anne's Food Pantry: Serving local families with compassion and commitment

by Ellyn Wexler, Staff Writer

Photo at St. Anne's by Patricia Kovacs

St. Anne’s Episcopal Church’s Food Pantry has been a beacon of hope for local families facing food insecurity. Established in 2011 by dedicated congregants, the pantry has grown steadily, now providing between 82,000 and 85,000 pounds of food annually to those in need.

For Glen Corso, the pantry’s manager since 2019, the work is deeply fulfilling. After retiring, he responded to a church newsletter call for volunteers and soon found himself overseeing operations. “Seeing these people, especially families with young children, gives me satisfaction that we are doing good for our community,” he said.

Photo at St. Anne's by Patricia Kovacs

Meeting a Growing Need

Every third Thursday of the month, St. Anne’s Food Pantry distributes food to approximately 100 to 200 families—serving between 250 and 325 individuals. In addition, the pantry donates food to Artemis House, a shelter for domestic violence victims, and the Embry Rucker Homeless Shelter in Reston.

Lately, the demand for assistance has been rising. Typically, a lull follows the high-demand holiday season, but Corso noted a sharp increase beginning in January that has continued into the spring. Despite increased demand, Corso believes the full effects of recent government layoffs have yet to be felt in the community.

Despite these challenges, he said that the pantry has never missed a delivery, even during the pandemic, maintaining its commitment to those who rely on its services.

Where the Food Comes From

St. Anne’s Food Pantry sources food from a combination of partnerships and individual donations:

• Capital Area Food Bank: Supplies nonperishable items and fresh produce.

• Food for Others Food Bank: Provides nearly all the pantry’s frozen meat.

• A Simple Gesture’s Cool Green Bags food collection program: Organizes bi-monthly community donations that support four area food pantries.

• Individual Donors: Contributions range from nonperishable goods placed in the church’s outdoor bin to an anonymous monthly donation of two large cartons of cereal.

Improving Food Distribution

Pre-packed bags of nonperishables are provided—one for single adults, two for families with children. In addition, recipients receive frozen meat and fresh produce.

A recent survey of food pantry users led to operational changes aimed at better meeting community needs. The pantry introduced a “choice table” system, where individuals can select from essential items such as cooking oil, soy sauce, shelf-stable milk, cranberry juice, and flour. This approach offers recipients more control over their food selection, ensuring they receive items that best suit their household needs. However, shortages still occur—recently, the Capital Area Food Bank was unable to supply peanut butter, a staple item.

Welcoming All in Need

The pantry serves everyone who seeks assistance, with no strict eligibility requirements. While recipients are asked to complete a basic form about their household, participation is voluntary. To streamline future visits, individuals receive a barcoded card, though those who prefer to remain anonymous are still welcomed without issue.

Photo at St. Anne's by Patricia Kovacs

Outreach and Community Support

To spread awareness, Corso posts on Facebook pages such as Reston-Herndon and Latin Fairfax. He also collaborates with local elementary school social workers to notify families in both English and Spanish.

The pantry’s operation is largely supported by St. Anne’s congregation, with 85% of its 60 regular volunteers hailing from the church. These dedicated individuals collect food from partner organizations, pack grocery bags, sort fresh produce, and staff the choice tables. St. Anne’s congregants, including its youth group, also contribute by organizing food drives once or twice a year.

How to Help

St. Anne’s Food Pantry welcomes volunteers and donations from the entire community—regardless of religious affiliation. Those looking to help can drop off nonperishable food items in the metal bin outside the church or sign up to volunteer.

For more information, visit St. Anne’s Episcopal Church at 1700 Wainwright Drive, Reston, or call 703-437-6530.