Foodlink pop-up pantry returns this Tuesday as organizers Mark and Kathy Hill call for volunteers and community support

Brockport, Newyork – The community is once again coming together for a vital cause as the Foodlink Pop-Up Pantry is set to return this Tuesday, April 15, with volunteers and organizers preparing to serve over 250 families facing food insecurity. The event will take place on Owens Road in front of Lineage, and as always, community members are encouraged to lend a hand and support their neighbors.

Mark and Kathy Hill, longtime coordinators of the monthly food distribution, are leading the charge again this month. They are working closely with Foodlink to ensure the entire process runs smoothly — from unloading the truck to placing food into the trunks of waiting cars. And while the weather forecast shows a chilly afternoon, the team is pushing forward with their mission.

“Are you excited!!!!” the Hills wrote in their message to volunteers. “This Tuesday we will be having our food giveaway. Weather is looking a little chilly but definitely doable! Please dress in layers in case it gets colder or warmer.”

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The pop-up pantry is an all-hands-on-deck operation. Volunteers start arriving as early as 1 p.m. to help set up tables and register recipients using iPads provided by Foodlink. The food distribution itself kicks off after 3 p.m., with the Foodlink truck arriving around 2:30. Once the truck is unloaded and the tables are stocked, cars begin pulling through the distribution lane — a familiar and efficient process that avoids any need for recipients to leave their vehicles.

Cars typically begin lining up as early as 10 a.m., and by the time the distribution begins, there are usually around 150 vehicles in line. Many of these represent multi-generational households, with an estimated 250 families receiving assistance each month. The demand continues to grow.

“Generally, about 20-25 volunteers are needed monthly,” Kathy explained. “With 150 people waiting in line for 5 hours for food it is imperative that if one wishes to volunteer (thank you so much) that they commit to show up.”

The operation is well-orchestrated. Volunteers are stationed along both sides of two long rows of tables, where they place a variety of groceries into cars as they pull up. The system is not only efficient but also maintains safety and dignity for the recipients.

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The entire process — from the truck’s arrival to final cleanup — typically wraps up by 4:30 or 5 p.m. While the work can be physically demanding, it’s also deeply rewarding. Volunteers consistently say it’s one of the most fulfilling ways to give back.

If you’re considering volunteering this Tuesday, the organizers need to hear from you. Those helping with set-up and registration should plan to arrive by 1 p.m., while volunteers distributing food are asked to come between 2:00 and 2:15 p.m. There will be a short briefing before the truck arrives and the real work begins.

Mark and Kathy are urging anyone interested in helping to reach out directly. “If you are planning to volunteer please email, text or Facebook message me letting me know you will be there. I need your first and last name, phone number, and email address. Thank you.”

To sign up or ask any additional questions, you can contact Kathy Hill by phone or text at 585-208-6174 or by email at [email protected].

This event has become a cornerstone of local support for struggling families, and it relies on the consistency and generosity of volunteers. If you have a few hours to spare, consider spending them helping someone in need. Every trunk filled, every hand extended, and every kind word spoken makes a real difference.