Spring is a season for new beginnings, and for GO Pantry, it also includes growth.
The Northern Kentucky-based nonprofit dedicated to feeding hungry kids will soon move into a larger, upgraded warehouse that will improve the organization’s ability to fulfill its critical mission.
“This move represents a milestone for GO Pantry and the community that supports us,” said Beth McIntire, GO Pantry co-founder and executive director. “Our new space will be filled with purpose, provision, and the opportunity to reach even more kids facing food insecurity.”
GO Pantry began in 2012 when a small group of friends collected food in a basement to help seven kids in a local school. That effort has blossomed into a community-powered movement that feeds more than 1,300 kids each week in over 100 schools spanning 6 counties.
The current warehouse, which opened in 2019, initially met the organization’s needs. However, after nearly tripling the number of children served since that time, GO Pantry has outgrown the space. The new facility, located less than a mile from the current warehouse, will enable more efficient operations, including an increased capacity for safely storing, sorting, and packing the thousands of GO Bags and GO Boxes distributed each year.
“While it is truly heartbreaking that the number of children facing food insecurity continues to rise, this expansion reflects a necessary and compassionate response to that growing need,” said Dr. Holly Danneman, University of Kentucky College of Medicine-NKY associate dean and GO Pantry board member. “As a board member, I am continually inspired by how GO Pantry meets these challenges with unwavering commitment, ensuring that more children in our community have consistent access to the nourishment they deserve. This new warehouse represents both the reality of the need and the strength of a community coming together to care for its most vulnerable.”
Located at 7453 Empire Drive, Suite 300, in Florence, the warehouse features:
• 11,040 square feet — more than double the previous space
• Two docks, one equipped with a dock leveler
• 18-foot ceilings for safe, multi-level pallet storage
• Expanded parking and restroom facilities for staff and volunteers
• Convenient office space on the same level as the warehouse
GO Pantry officially took possession of the new warehouse in March and plans to fully transition operations by May 1.
For more information or to get involved, visit gopantry.org.
GO Pantry