We are #PantryProud.

A common misconception about food pantries is that we only offer highly processed foods with low nutritional value. Those who have never visited a food pantry before might assume we only distribute frozen, canned, and dry goods. The River Food Pantry is proud to let everyone know we offer much more than that!

The River exists to provide an accessible and stable supply of free nutritious food choices to anyone facing food insecurity in Dane County.

We offer a bountiful choice of groceries four days a week. Items do include a variety of nonperishables, as well as fresh fruit and vegetables, milk, butter, eggs, and meat options. We also offer gluten-free items, vegetarian items, hygiene items and more.

In addition to the groceries, our professionally trained chefs work with volunteers four days a week to cook fresh, nutritious and delicious to-go meals, including vegetarian options, for entire households to enjoy at home.

We are proud to offer as many quality food options as possible so that people can choose what meets their needs best. We are making free healthy food more accessible than ever before through our innovative programs: groceries via curbside pickup or delivery (River Delivers), online grocery orders (ePantry), to-go meals (FAM, Family At-Home Meals), mobile lunch program (Munch) for low-income neighborhoods, and our community partnerships.

By offering our community choices for their groceries, meals, and ways to receive them, we show our neighbors respect—The River’s #1 core value. From cooking meals with fresh ingredients to filling fridges, freezers and cupboards, we are nourishing bodies, minds, and souls throughout our community.

Sincere thanks to all who help The River, along with other hardworking pantries in the area, to fulfill our vision of a fully nourished community. All are invited to come by The River and see for yourself why we are the area’s busiest food pantry.