Giving Back – Neighborhood Pantry, Camp Butler
Posted on: February 18,2026If you know anything about me, you know I love talking about Neighborhood Pantry–Camp Butler. Neighborhood Pantry–Camp Butler is a no-cost food resource serving military families across Okinawa, Japan. When my friend and I first became aware of the need on the island, we linked arms and began what turned into a long, challenging, and deeply meaningful journey to support our military community.When we opened our doors in the fall of 2023, we had no idea how far that impact would reach—across the island and throughout the Pacific. Since then, Neighborhood Pantry–Camp Butler has served more than 10,000 people and distributed over 74,000 pounds of food. What began as an idea quickly became a lifeline for so many families.
This journey has been deeply personal for me. I often say it has been the best and hardest thing I’ve done as a military spouse—and I wouldn’t change a single moment of it.
Volunteering with Neighborhood Pantry–Camp Butler taught me the power of showing up. Simple, consistent service creates real change. Families come through our pantry quietly and humbly, and every interaction is a reminder that food support isn’t about charity—it’s about community. Neighbors helping neighbors. In many ways, this is the heart of military life.
I also learned that when a need is visible, people respond. Our community stepped forward—leaders, volunteers, and donors alike—bringing food, time, and encouragement. Because of them, no family has had to face hunger alone.
On a personal level, this experience transformed me. When we started, I had no background in nonprofit work or running an organization like this. What I did have was a willingness to learn and a belief in the mission. Through this process, I discovered that passion fuels growth—and that we are capable of far more than we realize when we fully commit.
My roles at Neighborhood Pantry–Camp Butler allowed me to serve in many ways. I used my background in public relations to support administrative operations as the organization’s Secretary, helped draft foundational documents, and assisted with distributions. But my most meaningful moments came from simply being present—standing alongside families, listening to their stories, and offering support in whatever way was needed.Sometimes that meant stocking shelves. Sometimes it meant loading food into a car. And sometimes it meant simply listening. Those moments mattered. They always do. I learned that no task is too small, and that service—done with care—creates connection and dignity.
What makes Neighborhood Pantry–Camp Butler thrive is its people. The consistency of our volunteers, the strength of our teamwork, and our shared commitment to treating every guest with respect allow us to serve efficiently while leading with compassion. Small acts—kind words, patience, reassurance—create a ripple effect that reaches far beyond our doors.
For any military spouse who wants to make a difference but isn’t sure where to begin, my advice is simple: just start. Start small. Be brave enough to try—and if you’re unsure, find that friend to link arms with you. You don’t need special skills or unlimited time, just a willingness to help and a heart open to learning. Choose something you care about, because when passion leads the way, service becomes sustainable. And finally, let it change you. Volunteering gives back in ways you never expect—perspective, connection, and purpose. I have been forever changed by this experience and am deeply grateful for it. I’ve gained lifelong friendships along the way. Military communities don’t just survive because of service—they thrive when we turn compassion into action and show up for one another.
Jenn Hall is a dedicated advocate for military families on Okinawa and co-founder of the Okinawa Food Pantry. What began as a grassroots effort to address food insecurity has grown into a sustainable, island-wide resource serving hundreds of families each year, including expanded access through a hybrid distribution model and a second location at Camp Kinser.
Known for her calm leadership and servant heart, Jenn has also supported families through crisis response efforts, including typhoon preparedness initiatives. Through empathy, innovation, and collaboration, she has built lasting systems of support that continue to strengthen the military community.
Jen was recognized as the 2025 MCA Community Change Maker of the Year – Pacific Region.
