Food Programs
Our distributions are open to income-eligible Lorain County residents, who may come up to once per week.
Indoor Choice Pantry
Mondays, 1:30-4:30 pm
wednesdays, 1:30-4:30 pm
fridays, 1:30-3:30 pm
at the cooper Community resource center,
500 e. lorain st., oberlin
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS:
Is the food pantry just for Oberlin residents?
No! The OCS pantry is open to Lorain County residents. Our specific focus is on helping people in southern Lorain County meet basic needs.
Do you only run the pantry once a month?
We do it three times a week! The pantry is open Mondays (1:30-4:30), Wednesdays (1:30-4:30), and Fridays (1:30-3:30).
Can I come every day you’re open?
You're welcome to come get food once a week!
Can I come inside?
Sure! Our dedicated choice pantry is set up like a mini grocery store. You can come in and "shop" for the items your family likes best.
What documents do I have to bring?
You don't have to bring a stack of paperwork with you. A photo ID is helpful for getting you checked in quickly, but not necessary. We're more interested in hooking you up with food.
Do I need to preregister to come to the pantry?
No preregistration is required. The first time you visit, there is a short and easy form to fill out declaring your eligibility. You’ll be able to get food that same visit.
Do you have gluten-free, soy, or vegan products?
We often do, based on what is available through Second Harvest Food Bank and other donations/funding. If you have special dietary needs, ask a staff member in the pantry and we'll see if we can help.
Do you have diapers? Coats? Feminine hygiene products? Toothbrushes? Cat food?
Sometimes we have non-food items. If you have a specific need, please ask our pantry staff.
Can I volunteer?
Sure! Click here for information on how to sign up.
Curbside Pick-Up
During Pantry Hours
Pull into a spot marked for curbside pick-up and call us at (440) 774-6579 to have a prepacked box delivered to your vehicle! Make sure your trunk is clean and empty. A staff member will check you in and then we will load you trunk with the food bags and boxes. It’s that easy!
Questions?
If you have any questions about our food programs, call (440) 774-6579 or email ocservices@oberlincommunityservices.org.
DISCLAIMER: Outdoor food distributions and other events may be postponed or canceled due to severe weather.
Pop-up Produce Pantry
At Oberlin Community Services, one of our goals is to increase access to fresh, nutritious food for residents of Lorain County. Our Pop-Up Pantries bring a variety of fresh fruits and vegetables to neighborhoods in and around Oberlin. Anyone is welcome at a Pop-Up Pantry, and everything is completely free!
Senior Box Program
Through Second Harvest Food Bank of North Central Ohio, OCS helps administer the Senior Box Program, officially known as the Commodity Supplemental Food Program (CSFP), which is a federally funded program. Seniors that are eligible for this program must be age 60 or older and living on no more than 130% of the Federal Poverty Level. This program does require an application process to be completed.
Interested in signing up? Contact London Dejarnette, Food Programs Coordinator, at (440) 774-6579 to complete an application.
Food Deliveries
Are you home-bound or without transportation?
OCS provides food deliveries to Oberlin and Wellington residents!
Oberlin: Receives a food box and bag every Monday morning.
JFO & Concord residents receive their food box and bag every 3rd Friday of the month.
Wellington: Receives a food box and bag every 3rd Friday of the month.
Interested in signing up?
Please give us a call at (440) 774-6579 or email London Dejarnette, our Food Programs Coordinator: london@oberlincommunityservices.org.
Looking for home-delivered prepared meals?
In partnership with Mercy Allen Hospital, OCS can sign up Oberlin residents for the Meals on Wheels program!
Please call us at (440) 774-6579 for more information and to sign up.
OCS Community Cookbook
Click here to check out a variety of recipes from the OCS Cookbook!