COVID-19 Response
"FOOD FOR THOUGHT & ACTION" UPDATE

 

The "Food for Thought & Action" convenors hope that you and yours are well, and will continue to be in good health. We want to offer you an update on what's happening to alleviate hunger as we all pivot in response to the rapidly changing COVID-19 situation.
Scarborough School Nutrition, Scarborough Food Pantry, and Project GRACE and our partners like Wayside are 1) committed to feeding our neighbors; 2) making operating changes in accordance with CDC recommendations for the health and well-being of volunteers, staff, and patrons; and 3) asking for patience and understanding as we all adapt to changing circumstances.
FEEDING KIDS WHILE SCHOOLS ARE CLOSED
Families currently participating in the School Nutrition Backpack Program will continue to be served.  Parents experiencing new concerns around food security are encouraged to contact School Nutrition at
food@scarboroughschools.org or leave a message at 730-4700 to access support.
With the help of Scarborough Public Works personnel, dozens of Hannaford Helps boxes of staple foods and juice were taken this week from the Scarborough Food Pantry to Wentworth School to supplement the food available to the Backpacks Program. Additionally, Project GRACE is providing personal hygiene items and assistance on a case-by-case basis to families, particularly those who have special dietary needs.
FOOD PANTRIES ARE OPEN
Scarborough Food Pantry, South Portland Food Cupboard, and other pantries are open, have plenty of food right now, and are making changes to how food is provided to patrons as well as following CDC guidance on operations. Curbside service is one of the ways pantries are adapting for the well-being of their volunteers and their visitors. Times or days when pantries are open may also change as the situation evolves.
LENDING A HAND
We are all seeing an outpouring of offers of help, and it's very reassuring to be able to count on our communities and caring friends like you in times of need.
In accordance with CDC recommendations for communities to practice social distancing to 'flatten the curve' and impede the spread of the virus, most pantries and programs are limiting access to facilities, making changes as needed to deliver services safely, and observing best practices. 
 
Please stay tuned: we will be asking you for help, polling for your ideas, and keep you in the loop as opportunities to lend a hand arise.
The best way to help us help our neighbors right now is to make a financial gift.  

COVID-19 UPDATES
Scarborough Food Pantry, South Portland Food Cupboard, and other Maine pantries participated in a conference call this week hosted by Good Shepherd Food Bank, to share information and help pantries meet challenges presented by COVID-19.

Please follow the links for additional information, links, and resources. 
Scarborough Food Pantry