Common Goods is a food pantry and resource center serving Westfield State University students, faculty and staff who may be experiencing hunger and are struggling to make ends meet. Through Common Goods, we strive to alleviate food insecurity for the Westfield State community. Common Goods provides a safe and welcoming space in which to distribute a variety of non-perishable food items and personal care items at no cost.
One volunteer staff person will be on hand to greet visitors, and we ask everyone to maintain a safe physical distance from other individuals. Please wear a face mask. Bringing one's own reusable grocery bag is encouraged. Only one person will be allowed into the pantry room at one time. Other guidelines may apply and will be discussed upon arrival.
Fall 2020
Tuesdays, 1:00 pm - 4:00 pm
Saturdays, 9:00 am - 12 noon
(Hours may be subject to change)
Common Goods is a food pantry serving Westfield State University students, faculty and staff who may be experiencing hunger and are struggling to make ends meet.
Through Common Goods, we strive to alleviate food insecurity for Westfield State students while they work toward completing their education, as well as for any members of the Westfield State community who are in need of help providing for themselves and their families.
Common Goods provides a safe and welcoming space in which to distribute a variety of non-perishable foods and personal care items no cost.
Common Goods is a very short walk from the main campus.
Note: The food pantry is located on the second floor and there is no elevator access. Accommodations can be made to deliver goods to persons who are unable to walk up the flight of stairs. Email commongoods@westfield.ma.edu to make arrangements.
Common Goods strives to create a welcoming, nonjudgmental, and safe environment. It is an “open shelf” pantry. Participants may choose what kinds and what quantities of items they need and may visit the food pantry as many times as they wish.
Visitors will complete a brief intake form (to be filled out only once per semester).
Visitors may also fill out an optional survey of preferences of food items and basic necessities so that we can build a supply that will best meet the needs of the community.
Food insecurity is an increasing problem on college campuses, both locally and nationally. Common Goods was initiated by the Albert and Amelia Ferst Interfaith Center at Westfield State University in response to the President’s Interfaith and Community Service Challenge to address the issue of hunger. Westfield State’s neighbor, the Second Congregational Church, generously houses the pantry. No religious affiliation is required for individuals to access the food pantry. Click here for a list of suggested donations.
Common Goods invites the support of the campus community to sustain the operation of the pantry. Non-perishable food and personal care items can be left in designated bins across campus:
Monetary donations and sponsorship of food drives are welcome. Contact commongoods@westfield.ma.edu to collaborate.
Common Goods is made possible by the generous support of:
Read an article in the Westfield Voice about Common Goods!
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