In response to the federal government shutdown, the Emma L. Bowen Community Service Center announced today that its Food Pantry will be open to all furloughed federal employees living in New York City.

“The Bowen Center has always stood with our community in times of crisis, and this moment is no different,” said Patricia C. Jordan, Board Chair of the Emma L. Bowen Community Service Center. “For decades, our Food Pantry has been a lifeline for families facing financial hardship. With the government shutdown threatening the livelihoods of thousands of New Yorkers, including dedicated federal employees, it is our responsibility to step forward and ensure they have access to nutritious food and essential support. Our founder, Emma Bowen, believed that no one in our community should ever be forgotten or left behind — and this effort is a continuation of her legacy.”

In addition to the Food Pantry, Bowen’s full range of programs and services will be available to individuals who require additional support due to the stress, burden, and uncertainty created by the shutdown. These include comprehensive mental health services, addiction treatment, supportive programs, and connections to critical resources such as entitlements and benefits, food stamps, and legal aid.

The Bowen Center’s Food Pantry program provides nutritional food relief for individuals who are experiencing financial difficulties. Pantry bags are packaged according to the National Food Guide Pyramid and include fruit, vegetables, grains, dairy, and protein. The food is provided by the Food Bank for NYC, United Way of NYC, and the Emergency Food and Shelter Program (EFSP).

Each year, Bowen’s Food Pantry distributes more than 89,000 packages of food to individuals and families, providing critical relief to thousands of Harlem residents and surrounding communities.

Federal workers affected by the shutdown are encouraged to visit the Bowen Center’s Food Pantry, located at 1727 Amsterdam Avenue at 145th Street, during regular distribution hours — Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday, from 11:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. To meet the expected increased need, Bowen is adding Friday’s as an additional distribution day, beginning October 10th. Proof of federal employment (such as an ID card or recent pay stub) will be required.