Melanie Palmer

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Oct 1, 2026, 4:03 PM

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Updated

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Inside the Madison House apartment building on Ferris Avenue in White Plains is an important community resource.

“I've used it pretty much, even if it's just to run downstairs to get something very quick for an emergency," said White Plains resident Eleanor Smith.

It’s an emergency food pantry.

But on Thursday morning, the shelves looked a little bare because John Rossi and others told News 12 they thought it was the last day.

“Two weeks ago we were told," said Rossi, who is with the White Plains Community Action Partnership.

He says they were informed about a restructuring or organizational transition through the organization WestCOP.

However, later Thursday morning, officials with WestCOP said it isn't closing.

They sent News 12 the following statement:

“Madison House pantry is not closing today. WestCOP is grateful to have extended the operation of the White Plains Food Pantry through the end of the year, allowing us to continue serving individuals and families through the holiday season and then take a look at what we can do next. WestCOP is going through an important organizational transition as we conclude our 60-year chapter as Westchester County’s Community Action agency. While WestCOP will no longer operate as a Community Action agency or under the CAP designation, our commitment to the people and communities we have served remains strong.

This is an extraordinarily challenging time for nonprofit organizations, with changing funding environments, rising operating costs, and increasing demand for essential services. WestCOP is navigating those realities while working to preserve services where possible and ensure this transition is handled responsibly. Throughout the remainder of the year, we will continue to serve the community through Madison House and to work directly with our community partners and the Food Bank to connect individuals and families with additional food resources and supportive services.

We are deeply grateful to our staff, volunteers, donors, partners, and the White Plains community for their support over the years. We also welcome new donors, community partners, and organizations that want to help us continue meeting the needs of individuals and families throughout the region. There is still much work to be done, and we welcome those donors and partners who want to be part of that work.”

Volunteers at the pantry told News 12 that they see the demand firsthand and filling that need is something they are passionate about.

“It's not only for the neighborhood. It's for the elderly and the children," said Pat Dutton, who volunteers.