CazCares, Inc.

101 Nelson St., Rt. 20 E

Cazenovia, NY  13035

315-655-3174

We Are Open

Mondays, Tuesdays and Thursdays

9:30 am – 12 noon

^{(Closed on National Holidays and School Snow Days)}

Gigi Redmond

Client Services Director

Our Mission

CazCares provides food, clothing and referral services to low income families in Cazenovia School District and surrounding areas.

The Food Pantry operates under the guidelines of the Food Bank of CNY to provide food to eligible families. CazCares also works closely with the Community Action Program to provide access to additional services.

Who we are

CazCares is a Food Pantry and Clothing Closet serving residents with needs from the Cazenovia School District and surrounding area. Information and referral services are provided to support and empower clients.

Why are we here  

In 1982 the pastors from six local churches began CazCares in an effort to address the pressing needs of the rural poor. The pantry started in two rooms in the lower level of the Atwell Mill. In 1983 the food pantries in Madison County organized, as a means of networking under the Community Action Program, and CazCares is still part of that network.

How do we function

Each month approximately 100 families visit CazCares. The challenges facing our clients are numerous. Low paying jobs, lack of education, health problems and disabilities combine with rising prices for food, gas and heating oil to severely affect these families. We focus on providing food and clothing. Our Client Services Director listens to each client with care to understand their situation. We realize we can and need to do more to assist our clients on their journey toward greater independence.

CazCares relies on our community’s generous support to operate. Volunteers work to fill food orders, stock pantry shelves and sort clothing. We receive donations of money, food and clothing from individuals, area churches, student and civic groups. We are able to purchase food at a discount from the CNY Food Bank.

What is next

CazCares is beginning its 25th year of operation. We remain committed to our mission to provide food, clothing and referral services to those in need.  The number of people needing our help has increased and we have outgrown our current location. In May of 2007, we moved to a new location which is handicapped accessible and provides an opportunity for improved layout, expanded services and additional community participation. It also offers the opportunity to network with other organizations and agencies to help individuals make choices to strengthen their lives.

How can you help

CazCares will need assistance in many ways as we settle into our new location and look to the future. Volunteers will be needed to assist in packing food, sorting and displaying clothing, greeting clients and donors, developing beneficial programs and many other opportunities.

Monetary donations are always welcome as well. Please   call CazCares at 655-3174 and we will match your talents and offers with specific needs.  

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