Local Volunteering - The P. Keith Nelson Food Pantry

BREAKABEEN — The P. Keith Nelson food pantry was established in September 1999 with monies bequeathed to the Breakabeen Presbyterian Church by the pantry’s namesake. Since its inception, the pantry has grown weekly providing 50-60 families suffering from food insecurities with 3-4 nutritious meals.

The pantry serves clients throughout southern Schoharie County and neighboring Delaware county. Partnering with Walmart with the Feed America program supplements the food supply. 

In December 2025, the Breakabeen Church closed. The pantry is working with Albany Presbytery to obtain ownership of the pantry building. The pantry has its own not for profit status which can lead to a smooth transition. 

The P. Keith Nelson pantry operates through grants obtained from the Regional Food Bank and an excellent group of volunteers. Without the financial support of the church, the pantry is dependent on those grants, fund raising, and donations. 

The pantry welcomes new volunteers who can assist with food pick-ups, making boxes, and distributing boxes, assisting with fund-raising, or writing grant proposals. Interested people can reach out to Sam Ostrowski at 518-605-4765.