Milly’s Pantry is excited to announce its annual school supply giveaway on August 13th from 9:00 AM to 1:00 PM, and August 14th from 4:00 PM to 6:00 PM, taking place at the elementary school cafeteria in Penn Yan, NY. The event in Dundee is set for August 19th from 9:00 AM to 1:00 PM and on August 20th from 4:00 PM to 6:00 PM at the Dundee Central School Cafeteria. Now celebrating its fifteenth year, this program aims to equip Yates County students, irrespective of their family income, with a brand-new backpack and all the essential school supplies requested by teachers to ensure a successful start to the new school year.
The initiative distributes around 1,000 fully stocked backpacks to students throughout Yates County. This year's program is generously supported by the Nord Family Foundation, KanPak, various community donors, and the dedicated volunteers who bring this event to life.
Camilla ‘Milly’ Bloomquist, the inspiring force behind Milly’s Pantry, previously served as a school nurse and held a position on the Board of the Penn Yan Central School District, where she became acutely aware of how poverty impacts children in Yates County.
In 2011, Milly received the Presidential Citizens Medal from President Barack Obama, who remarked, “You should be very proud of what you accomplished.” Milly responded with humble determination, saying, “Well, I’m not done yet!”
The dedicated volunteers and supporters of Milly’s Pantry remain committed to creating pathways for success, self-sufficiency, and confidence for every child in Yates County by delivering essential nourishment and educational assistance. Emulating Milly Bloomquist's vision, they hold a firm belief in the boundless potential of each child and in nurturing a dynamic community where children are equipped with the support, resources, and opportunities necessary to build the lives they aspire to lead.
In conjunction with their School Supply Program, the “Weekend Backpack Program” was launched in 2007. This initiative provides a selection of kid-friendly, easy-to-prepare, non-perishable food items to students every Friday throughout the school year, helping families access extra food options for the weekends. Initially, the Weekend Backpack Program served only 27 children. Thanks to the generous backing from the Daisy Marquis Jones Foundation and community contributors, the program now runs 42 weeks a year and distributes an average of 400 food bags weekly to local schoolchildren.
Moreover, a beloved spot for both locals and visitors is Milly's Market & Café. Offering free WiFi, this café serves as a welcoming hub for residents and travelers alike.
Milly’s Café boasts a charming old-fashioned soda fountain! Indulge in classic sodas, creamy floats, milkshakes, and even refreshing smoothies—all perfect complements to their delightful light lunch and dessert selection.
At the Market, you’ll discover handcrafted gifts from local artisans in the Finger Lakes region. Unique items like handwoven baskets, charcuterie boards, jewelry, art, and souvenirs await you at Milly’s Market. Looking for a treat to bring home? Locally made jams, pickles, sauces, dressings, salts, organic foods, and more are all available. It proudly stands as the largest local food distributor on Main Street in Penn Yan!
Thanks to the steadfast commitment of talented and generous volunteers, along with substantial donations, Milly’s Pantry achieves its core mission year after year. This initiative not only transforms the lives of Yates County Youth but also serves as a vital lifeline for the entire community.
It's Not Just About Backpacks.
It never has been... it’s about hope in the eyes of a child.
Milly's Pantry
19-23 Main Street
Penn Yan, New York 14527
Photo credits: Milly's Pantry
