Neighbors Serving Neighbors
Receive Food
The EJU Food Shelf operates out of the basement of the Good Shepherd Church located at 273 Vermont Route 15 in Jericho, VT. Distribution typically takes place on the third Saturday of each month from 9:00-10:30am, unless otherwise noted. See upcoming events below.
The distribution takes place in a “drive thru” distribution style so you stay in your vehicle and food is brought out to you. The distribution includes shelf stable items, dairy products, fresh produce, meats, bread, and personal care items. Also available, if needed, are pet food and diapers.
All are welcome! If you are new to the distribution, please bring a license or a piece of mail identifying you and your address.
Upcoming Events
Sat, Feb 15Feb 15, 2025, 9:00 AM – 10:30 AMGood Shepherd Lutheran Church, 273 VT-15, Jericho, VT 05465, USAFeb 15, 2025, 9:00 AM – 10:30 AMGood Shepherd Lutheran Church, 273 VT-15, Jericho, VT 05465, USAIf you are new to the food shelf, please bring a form of identification with you that indicates your current address. We ask that "out of towners" arrive at 10am to avoid congestion in the parking lot.- Sat, Mar 15Mar 15, 2025, 9:00 AM – 10:30 AMGood Shepherd Lutheran Church, 273 VT-15, Jericho, VT 05465, USAMar 15, 2025, 9:00 AM – 10:30 AMGood Shepherd Lutheran Church, 273 VT-15, Jericho, VT 05465, USAIf you are new to the food shelf, please bring a form of identification with you that indicates your current address. We ask that "out of towners" arrive at 10am to avoid congestion in the parking lot.
- Sat, Apr 12Apr 12, 2025, 9:00 AM – 10:30 AMGood Shepherd Lutheran Church, 273 VT-15, Jericho, VT 05465, USAApr 12, 2025, 9:00 AM – 10:30 AMGood Shepherd Lutheran Church, 273 VT-15, Jericho, VT 05465, USAIf you are new to the food shelf, please bring a form of identification with you that indicates your current address. We ask that "out of towners" arrive at 10am to avoid congestion in the parking lot.
Neighbors on a Mission
Making a Difference Since 1983
The idea of a Food Shelf began in 1983 when government cutbacks left senior citizens without enough food to last through each month. By the last week of the month, many seniors had run out of food without the means to buy more. A group of women from a local church began to collect food and distribute it to those community members who needed help. This was the catalyst for the Jericho Underhill Ecumenical Ministry, formed through a collaboration of area churches who agreed to support an area food shelf. Their thinking was that working together, in an expression of Christian unity, they could accomplish more than working separately.
And so the work began of gaining 501(c)(3) status, adopting by-laws, electing officers, and creating committees. A lot has changed in the world since 1983, and the Jericho Underhill Ministry (which eventually added the town of Essex into its fold) currently operates a monthly food shelf distribution (commonly known as the EJU Foodshelf); manages emergency aid requests; and provides support for educational experiences for our neighbors. Today, the Ministry is represented by members from nine area churches along with community members who adhere to and support our Mission Statement.
Get to Know Us
Our Mission Statement
Because of our faith in Jesus Christ and his teachings concerning those in need, the mission of the Essex, Jericho, Underhill Ecumenical Ministry, a 501(c)(3) nondenominational Christian organization, is to operate a community food shelf, provide educational experiences, and provide emergency aid for community members.
2025 Officers
President
Forrest Cochran
Vice President
Louise Mathews
Treasurer
Lisa Walker
Secretary
Phyllis VanHorn
Volunteer Work
We are always looking for new volunteers. Volunteers are needed on the day of our distribution each month as well as during the week leading up to distribution day.
If you would like to learn more, please send an email to ejufoodshelf@gmail.com
Emergency Aid
If you are in need of emergency aid (such as rent, utilities, etc), please send a message to ejufoodshelf@gmail.com or call 802-878-5997.
We will be happy to speak with you and determine if we are able to assist.
Financial Gifts
Our organization is a registered 501(c)(3) charitable organization so all monetary gifts are tax deductible. If you can help by making a monetary gift, please contribute online below or mail your donation to:
EJU Foodshelf
PO Box 65
Jericho, VT 05465
Current Non-Perishable Needs
Our food shelf is always very grateful for any and all food donations. Individual donations can be dropped off in the food donation boxes at Hannaford's or Market 32 (formerly Price Chopper) in Essex or at the Jericho Market in Jericho.
In addition, if your group, organization, or business would like to host a food drive, please contact us to coordinate that effort. Thank you!
At this time, the EJU Food Shelf needs the following items:
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Creamy peanut butter
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Canned fruits
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Pasta
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Spaghetti
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Pasta sauce
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Baked bean
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Canned tuna
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Cereals
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Any gluten-free items
Current as of January 2025
Donate
Thank you for your generous stewardship and online contributions to our food shelf. Your support plays a vital role in ensuring that families in our community have access to nutritious food. Every dollar you contribute helps us provide meals to those in need, fostering hope and dignity. Your commitment to fighting hunger makes a profound difference in the lives of many Vermonters, and we are incredibly grateful for your partnership. Together, we are creating a stronger, healthier community. Thank you for standing with us in this important mission!
The Jericho Underhill Ecumenical Ministry is a 501(c)3 tax exempt organization as recognized by the Internal Revenue Service.
Host a Food Drive
Organizing a food drive is a fantastic opportunity to engage your friends, family, and colleagues in a collective effort to combat hunger. It’s a great way to raise awareness about food insecurity while collecting non-perishable food items that can greatly benefit and nourish the Vermont families we serve.
If you’re interested in hosting a food drive, please reach out to us via email. We would be thrilled to provide you with resources and support to ensure your drive is successful.
Together, we can make a lasting impact in our community and help ensure that no one goes hungry. We appreciate your generosity and look forward to hearing from you soon!