About
About the Newmarket Food Pantry
The Newmarket Food Pantry was established in 1986 when local churches joined forces to coordinate efforts and pool resources to support families in need. Its first location was in the basement of the Old Town Hall.
Initially, the pantry averaged just 25 visits per week, relying on church-led food drives and community donations.
As Newmarket’s population has grown and economic conditions have shifted, demand has increased significantly. Today, the pantry supports over 25 000 visits a year and distributes 650 000+ meals. 33% of those we serve are under the age of 18.
Thanks to the continued support of our volunteers and community, we remain committed to our vision: a community free from hunger.
Leadership team
Board of Directors
Chris Cartwright
Chair
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Chris Cartwright has over 15 years of experience in sales and management in both corporate and small businesses. He has volunteered at various charities throughout his career but felt passionate about the Newmarket Food Pantry after volunteering in 2014. Chris wanted to get more involved so in late 2015 he was hired as a Board member, became Vice Chair of the Board of Directors in 2017, and Chair in 2023. Chris also spends his time volunteering in youth activities and is the Director of the “Golf For Kids” tournament that he began in 2007.
Mark Wretham
Vice-Chair
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Mark joined the Newmarket Food Pantry Board of Directors in July, 2019. As a 25+ year resident of Newmarket, Mark feels passionate about the community and the people that live within our amazing town. As a graduate of Georgian College in Business & Event Management and as long-time entrepreneur, Mark has been involved in many community and charitable events both on the organization and participant side. Through these experiences, Mark has extensive knowledge and experience with event management and execution and looks forward to bringing these assets to the Board of Directors. Mark is excited and dedicated to serving our community by helping those in need with the growing demand at the Newmarket Food Pantry.
Juliane Goyette
Treasurer
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Juliane lives in Newmarket with her husband Mike. Together they have two children and a puppy. She has been employed in the financial services industry since graduating from McMaster University in 1994. She works in her family business as Branch Manager and Financial Advisor alongside her father. Over the years, Juliane has been involved in several local charitable organizations, schools and athletic groups. She is a believer in giving back to her community through volunteerism and the sponsoring of various sport teams and local events. She is passionate about helping those in need which has led her to serve with the Newmarket Food Pantry. She strongly believes in the Newmarket Food Pantry’s motto of ‘Nourishing Neighbours’ and feels that all individuals should have healthy options for themselves and their families.
Marjorie Lavery
Secretary
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Marjorie Lavery joined the Newmarket Food Pantry Board of Directors in January, 2018. As a 20 year employee of IBM, Marjorie has held various roles in sales and operations. When she’s not busy with her family and has some free time, Marjorie can often be found running along the Tom Taylor Trail. A lifetime resident of York Region and a proud citizen of Newmarket for the last six years, Marjorie is enthusiastically dedicated to serving on the board to help meet the growing demand of those with food insecurities in our community.
Morgan Foot
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Morgan has been a Newmarket resident for over ten years, originally from Banff Alberta. Morgan is currently employed with the York Catholic District School Board. She is a graduate of Fanshawe College in London, Ontario. She can often be found volunteering her time with local organizations and events, and prides herself on the community work she is involved with. A busy mother of two, Morgan enjoys spending her ‘limited’ free time gardening, painting, drawing, and honing her abilities with American Sign Language.
Resources
Downloadable Resources for your use:
Recent Pantry News
Vince’s announces year-end totals for 2023 Food Rescue partnership
Vince’s announces year-end totals for 2023 Food Rescue partnership. In the face of Canada’s troubling food waste problem, Vince’s has been a dedicated participant in the Newmarket Food Pantry’s Food Rescue program.
Put A Tuque On It If You’re Newmarket Proud, Support Food Pantry
NWMRKT Proud hats are popping up on heads across town in a show of hometown pride and support for the Newmarket Food Pantry…
Fill The Fridge Challenge
A group of volunteers in Newmarket have launched an online challenge that they are hoping will become a viral way to keep the town fed. Videographer Audra Brown tells us how the Fill The Fridge Challenge encourages businesses to participate.
Provincial grant funds community kitchen at Newmarket Food Pantry
May 11, 2022 — The project was completed in the spring of 2022 and will give people in the community improved access to programs and services at the local food