HONESDALE, Pa. — Wayne County Human Services is hosting its monthly Food Pantry Program distribution today, November 12, 2025, providing essential groceries to residents in need throughout the county.

The program delivers shelf-stable food items and, when available, farm-fresh products like milk, eggs, and produce to help supplement household food budgets. The monthly distributions rotate among five locations across Wayne County, including Honesdale, Lakeville, Lakewood, Newfoundland, and Damascus, ensuring accessibility for residents across the region.

Who Qualifies and What’s Included

To participate, residents must register in advance, provide proof of county residency, and supply basic household information, including names, dates of birth, and income for all members. Eligibility is determined by income guidelines; for example, a one-person household must earn no more than $2,322 per month (or $27,861 annually).

Each food package typically includes canned fruits and vegetables, pasta, canned meats, and other staples. When available, the program supplements these items with USDA commodities and local donations. In addition, pantry participants have access to nutrition planning and education resources, including guidance on menu planning, budgeting, and proper food storage, provided in partnership with Penn State Extension.

“This program is a lifeline for many families across Wayne County,” said Clarissa Wimmers, program coordinator. “Our goal is to ensure that residents have access to nutritious food, and we rely on the support of donors and local organizations to make that possible.”

Community members who wish to help can donate non-perishable, unexpired food items or make monetary contributions. Recommended items include low-salt canned vegetables, fruit in juice, shelf-stable milk, oatmeal, and personal care supplies.

Wayne County Food Pantry Schedule

• Damascus Pantry
  • Day: 3rd Thursday monthly
  • Time: 1:00 – 3:00 pm
  • Location: Damascus Township Building, 60 Conklin Road, Damascus
  • Next Distribution: Nov 20
• Honesdale Pantry
  • Day: 2nd Tuesday monthly (Closed Nov 11; next day Nov 12)
  • Time: 10:00 am – 1:00 pm
  • Location: Tri County Beverage, 214 Willow Avenue, Honesdale
  • Next Distribution: Nov 12
• Lakeville Pantry
  • Day: 4th Thursday monthly
  • Time: 10:00 am – 1:00 pm
  • Location: Paupack Township Building, 25 Daniels Road, Lakeville
  • Next Distribution: Nov 27
• Lakewood Pantry
  • Day: 3rd Wednesday monthly
  • Time: 12:30 – 2:30 pm
  • Location: Northern Wayne Health Center, 412 Como Road, Lake Como
  • Next Distribution: Nov 19
• Newfoundland Pantry
  • Day: 2nd Friday monthly
  • Time: 11:00 am – 1:00 pm
  • Location: Dreher Township Building, 899 Main Street, Newfoundland
  • Next Distribution: Nov 14

For more information or to volunteer, residents can contact the program at 570-253-4262 Monday through Friday, 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.

Today’s distribution provides a timely boost to local families, helping ensure that all residents of Wayne County have access to essential food resources as the community heads into the winter season.