Founded in 1978 by Ginny White, Ginny’s Helping Hand began with a simple yet powerful goal: to support neighbors in need. What started as a small yard sale collecting clothing donations has since grown into a multi-faceted nonprofit, serving thousands across the region.

While the food pantry is at the heart of Ginny’s mission (“A hand up, not a hand out”), the space also boasts a large thrift store stocked with clothing for all seasons and all ages. 

Located in downtown Leominster, Ginny’s Helping Hand serves clients throughout North Central Massachusetts, Worcester, and surrounding areas. No one who comes to Ginny’s is turned away, though they may be guided toward resources closer to home to reduce the burden of travel.

Recently, Ginny’s has seen up to 5,500 visitors in a one-month period. “The demand is definitely growing,” says Brandon Robbins, Executive Director of Ginny’s Helping Hand. “The food pantry used to be an emergency resource to close a gap in grocery needs, but as groceries, utilities and housing costs have gotten more expensive, people are relying on food pantries as a primary source. And those that never used a food pantry before are now coming here to fill that gap.” 

Ginny’s works with many local and regional partners, including the Worcester County Food Bank and grocery stores, to provide a wide range of fresh produce, frozen meats, and non-perishables. 

In addition to providing food to those that come to Ginny’s, the organization also serves as a distribution hub for other local soup kitchens and pantries, and its thrift store helps them be responsive to emergency assistance needs for clothing and personal hygiene products.

The thrift store provides affordable clothing and household items to the community while providing a revenue source for the food pantry, helping it sustain itself.

Looking ahead, Ginny’s is exploring a delivery service to reach individuals unable to visit the pantry in person. As the demand for services continues to grow, the organization remains committed to its mission of fulfilling the community’s basic needs. 

This story was originally published in our 2024 Annual Report.