What you need to know about Abundance Co-op in Rochester
Charlene Phillips, marketing coordinator, explains what draws customers to Abundance Co-op in Rochester. You don’t have to be a member to shop there.
- Venture Compassionate Ministries has unveiled a newly redesigned food pantry where guests can select their own groceries—restoring choice with dignity.
- At the heart of this transformation lies a mission: to uplift and empower those grappling with food insecurity.
- Over the past six months, the organization has witnessed a 55% surge in demand, a stark reminder of the growing need.
On March 29, Venture Compassionate Ministries, a nonprofit organization that addresses food insecurity and supports families through holistic community care initiatives, opened its newly transformed food pantry.
The pantry now follows the “guest choice” grocery store model, where individuals can select food items based on their needs rather than receiving pre-packed boxes.
The new design aims to offer an empowering shopping experience for families facing food insecurity.
“While the traditional food pantry model was well-intentioned, it often meant providing pre-selected items that didn’t always meet guests’ dietary needs, cultural preferences or personal circumstances,” said David Riddell, director of Venture Compassionate Ministries.“By empowering individuals and families to choose the food that best suits their needs, we’re transforming the experience from receiving charity to making meaningful choices — a shift that restores a sense of normalcy during challenging times.”
The transition was made in response to Rochester’s rising demand for food assistance.
“We’ve observed a significant increase in need — a more than 55% rise in the last six months compared to last year — driven largely by economic uncertainty and rising grocery prices,” Riddell said. “Especially among working families, seniors on fixed incomes, veterans and individuals suddenly facing financial crises.”
Community partners fuel the pantry, including Foodlink, United Way, Wegmans and local churches. Volunteers pitched in, gardeners donated produce, and a local bakery now provides fresh bread twice a month.
If you’re looking to support, Riddell said, “Beyond food donations, individuals can make a meaningful impact by volunteering and advocating for food justice. Our dedicated team of more than 90 volunteers plays a critical role — assisting guests in the pantry, sorting donations, unloading delivery trucks and helping with logistics — ensuring that our neighbors receive the support they need.”
If you’re interested in donating or volunteering, visit www.venturerochester.org/give.
—As a Rochester native, Justice Marbury entered the world of journalism to create work where voices like hers were heard—the voices of minority communities. Marbury covers small businesses, neighborhood concerns, and the interesting people who live in Rochester’s 19th Ward. As the 19th Ward reporter, she has helped implement community outreach ideas by asking what people in various communities want to read about themselves in addition to regular news. Contact her on Instagram @justice_marbury and by email at [email protected].
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