Neighbors Need Us — Now More Than Ever: North Canton Cares Pantry Faces 50% Surge in Demand as Government Shutdown Threatens to Worsen Food Insecurity

North Canton, OH — [October 29, 2025] — Even before the recent federal government shutdown and ongoing SNAP assistance disruptions, the North Canton Cares Pantry had already seen an unprecedented 40% increase in families served since launching its new facility last month. Now, with federal support programs paused and uncertainty growing, local need is expected to rise even further in the weeks ahead.
To meet that challenge, the pantry invites the public to its Ribbon Cutting Celebration on Sunday, November 2, 2025, from 2:00–4:00 PM at 5948 Mayfair Rd, North Canton, OH 44720.
https://nccpantry.networkforgood.com/events/92707-ribbon-cutting
The event is both a celebration and a call to action, marking the pantry’s growth while rallying community support to meet a sharp rise in need. The pantry has set a goal to raise $50,000 to help keep shelves stocked and food accessible through the holiday season. Guests are encouraged to stop by to celebrate, donate, or bring pantry staples such as canned meats, pasta, rice, cereal, and peanut butter.
“We built this pantry to serve hope,” said Jeff Dayton, Associate Pastor at Summit Church. “The increase in families coming through our doors began before the shutdown, but this new situation will only make things harder for many of our neighbors. We’re asking our community to come together and help us meet that challenge.”
The North Canton Cares Pantry provides groceries, household items, and encouragement to local families in need. With the number of visitors rising rapidly and assistance programs delayed, pantry leaders are calling on residents, churches, and businesses to take immediate action through donations, food drives, and volunteer support.
“When government systems pause, it’s the community that steps up,” said Matt Ille, Executive Director of North Canton Cares Pantry. “Every can, every dollar, and every hour volunteered helps feed a neighbor — and that’s what caring looks like.”
Ribbon Cutting Details:
5948 Mayfair Rd, North Canton, OH 44720
This Sunday, November 2, 2025
2:00–4:00 PM
Donate or RSVP Here
Ways to Help:
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Donate or RSVP: https://nccpantry.networkforgood.com/events/92707-ribbon-cutting
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Volunteer: https://www.nccpantry.com/volunteer
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Bring Pantry Staples: Drop off during the event or during at the bench located at the Summit Church or Pantry.
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Follow & Share: https://www.facebook.com/northcantoncarespantry
For more information, visit https://www.nccpantry.com.
Media Contact:
Matt Ile, Executive Director
North Canton Cares Pantry
matt@nccpantry.com
About North Canton Cares Pantry
The North Canton Cares Pantry exists to provide food, household items, and hope to local families in need. Located at 5948 Mayfair Rd in North Canton, the pantry serves residents living in the following ZIP codes: 44720, 44721, 44685, 44718, 44709, and 44630.
In addition, the pantry proudly serves all veterans, active-duty military members, and first responders, regardless of ZIP code.
Guests are asked to present a photo ID and a piece of mail showing their name and address as proof of residency.
The North Canton Cares Pantry is a 501c3 organization supported by community donations, local churches, and area organizations. Together, we’re feeding families, fostering connection, and proving that North Canton truly cares.
Learn more, volunteer, or donate at northcantoncarespantry.com
