February 3, 2026
The Edinburg Center in Bedford has opened a new on-site food pantry to support clients and staff in need due to food prices rising and food insecurity.
Established in 1977 and based in Bedford, The Edinburg Center serves thousands of children and adults with mental health challenges, intellectual and developmental disabilities, autism, and brain disorders. It employs more than 200 staff members.
For many of The Edinburg Center’s clients with disabilities, transportation barriers make accessing off-site food pantries especially difficult. By offering a food pantry on-site, the center has removed an obstacle to food access while providing immediate support. Clients are also actively involved in helping to operate the pantry.
“As food insecurity continues to impact so many in our community, we felt it was critically important to help bridge that gap for both our clients and our staff by opening this food pantry,” stated Patti Maguire, president and chief executive officer of The Edinburg Center. “Food is a basic necessity, yet many of the people we serve are struggling to access it. We are incredibly grateful to our supporters and are once again asking our community to come together and help fill the gap. Every donation, no matter how big or small, makes a meaningful difference.”
Donations can be dropped off at The Edinburg Center’s front lobby at 205 Burlington Road, Bedford. Monetary donations may also be made directly through The Edinburg Center’s website. Donors are asked to designate that their contribution is for the food pantry.
The food pantry also welcomes contributions of nonperishable groceries and grocery store gift cards. All donations go directly to individuals and families served by The Edinburg Center.
Most-needed items include canned vegetables, beans, and soup; rice, pasta, and cereal; shelf-stable milk and baby formula; peanut butter and canned protein (e.g., tuna, salmon, chicken, beans, lentils); and cooking oil and spices.
Community members are encouraged to drop off donations or contribute grocery gift cards to support neighbors in need.