Acord Pantry

In 1991, Joe and Barbara Younger felt the need to help the less fortunate and went to Plowshares in Topsfield to help its food pantry. When told the pantry was closing, they went looking for a new place.

At the same time, the Missions Committee from the Hamilton First United Methodist Church felt the calling to start a local food pantry. The Committee joined Plowshares activists Bruce Menon, Maureen Deery, Jim Kiernan and Joe and Barbara Younger.

Thanks to the generosity of Phil Hansbury, Hamilton resident and local businessman, Acord pantry found a home at 69 Willow Street. The name Acord comes from the old testament of the Bible (Eccl. 4:9-12), a story showing how more things can be accomplished when many people join together to help.

Town leaders were very helpful and assisted in the process of completing the necessary paperwork to establish Acord as a 501 (c)(3) nonprofit to serve the needy in Hamilton, Wenham and surrounding communities.

Today, hundreds of people have volunteered to assist at the pantry. Acord has been supported by many generous contributions of food and money from area communties and residents. This effort by the people of our towns shows just what can be accomplished when many come together and work for the good of all.

Our mission is to help the needy in our area by creating a warm and welcoming place to obtain food assistance. No one in need is turned away, and we continue to strive to find ways to expand and improve our delivery of service.