DSS SUMMER PANTRY
The Portsmouth Department of Social Services (PDSS) Community Food Pantry is dedicated to supporting children, families, and individuals throughout the City of Portsmouth by providing access to nutritious food and essential resources. As part of our commitment to fostering hope, resilience, and opportunity for all, the pantry serves as a community resource that helps reduce food insecurity and promotes family stability.
During the Safe Summer Initiative, the PDSS Community Food Pantry plays a vital role in ensuring that children and families have access to healthy meals and basic necessities while school is out of session. By partnering with community organizations, local businesses, faith-based groups, volunteers, and residents, the pantry helps bridge gaps that many families experience during the summer months.
The pantry\\\'s goals are to:
• Increase access to nutritious food for children, families, seniors, and vulnerable individuals.
• Promote child and family well-being by helping meet basic needs that support healthy development and stability.
• Strengthen community connections through partnerships and volunteer engagement.
• Provide information and referrals to supportive services, including benefits programs, employment resources, family services, and community-based supports.
• Support safe and healthy communities by reducing barriers that can contribute to family stress and hardship.
The PDSS Community Food Pantry reflects our belief that every family deserves dignity, respect, and access to the resources necessary to thrive. Through the Safe Summer Initiative, we are working together with community partners to create a healthier, safer, and more supportive Portsmouth where children can enjoy a safe summer, and families can remain connected to the resources they need to succeed.
Together, we are building stronger families, healthier neighborhoods, and a more resilient Portsmouth community.