Food insecurity has long been a concern in our neighborhood and was exacerbated by COVID-19 and the collapse of our tourism-dependent local economy. In response, Common Ground Relief returned to food security work in March 2020. CGR initially partnered with lowernine.org and Second Harvest Food Bank to run twice-monthly mobile food distributions and then operate the Levee Food Pantry. Since January 2022, Common Ground Relief has independently operated the Free Pantry with an emphasis on fresh produce and barrier-free grocery access.

We received a $45,000 grant from the New Orleans Recreation and Culture Fund, nominated by Councilman Oliver Thomas that will sustain us for the entirety of 2024. We feed an average of 70+ families each week, representing on average 84 children, 84 adults, and 34 seniors. In 2021 CGR served an average of 25 families a week, in 2022 we served up to 50+ families per week. We have doubled our impact each year for three consecutive years. We partner with local farms Barcelo Gardens and River Queen Greens to support local growers. Local businesses divert their excess food products from landfills and instead deliver donations of fresh produce and baked goods to families in need.

Free Weekly Grocery Distribution

• The pantry is located at 1804 Deslonde Street, New Orleans, LA 70117 and is open on Saturdays from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.
• No intake paperwork is required, just sign in. There are no requirements for residency, income, or appointments.

Volunteer to Work at the Pantry

Volunteer to restock shelves, conduct client intake, clean, and more by signing up here or emailing volunteer@commongroundrelief.org.

Donate to the Pantry

Donate specifically to the pantry here. If you have the ability to secure bulk food donations, please call us or email volunteer@commongroundrelief.org — we would love to have your help feeding our community!

Thanks to Ayu Bakehouse, Levee Baking Co, Bubba’s Produce, Bellegarde Bakery, The Station, and more. We are always accepting donations of canned items and other shelf-stable goods.