With recent reductions and delays in federal SNAP program benefits, the Boothbay Region YMCA is partnering with the Boothbay Region Food Pantry to meet the rising needs of local families. The Y will begin collecting non-perishable food items immediatelyand delivering them weekly to the Food Pantry.  

In addition, thanks to the generosity of St. Columba’s Episcopal Church and the Bosarge Family Foundation, the Y will increase its offerings in the Grab’n’Go snack fridge in the Y’s Lobby.  

According to Food Pantry Board Treasurer Joanne Smith, the Pantry has seen a notable increase in demand. She shared, “Just last week alone, five new families requested assistance for the first time.”  In recognition of this growing need, Joanne continued, “the Food Pantry is hoping to expand the number of weeks that families can access food each month,” ensuring more consistent support for those struggling to put meals on the table.  

While the Pantry continues to receive food from Good Shepherd Food Bankand Hannaford, Smith admitted that “some of our shelves have become alarmingly bare.” The USDA subsidies that once helped sustain meat purchases and other essentials have been reduced, leaving the Pantry increasingly dependent on private donations and local food drives to meet the needs of individuals and families.

Understanding that hunger affects the health and stability of the entire community, the Yis committed to helping those in need. Community and Y members are encouraged to drop off canned and packaged goods in the collection bins in the Y’s main lobby. Each week, YMCA staff and volunteers will deliver these donations directly to the Boothbay Region Food Pantry. Smith said, “Community members are also always welcome to directly deposit non-expired food at any time at the bin at the back of the Congregational Church in front of the door to the Food Pantry.”   

“Our mission is to strengthen our community through youth development, healthy living, and social responsibility,” said Y CEO Andy Hamblett. “When families don’t have enough to eat, it affects every aspect of their well-being. Partnering with the Food Pantry is one way we can ensure that our neighbors are supported during difficult times.”  

Together, the Boothbay Region YMCA and Food Pantry aim to ensure that no family in the region goes hungry, especially during this period of increased need, reduced federal assistance, and the upcoming holiday season.  

For more information on how to help, please contact the Boothbay Region YMCA at boothbayregionymca.org or the Boothbay Region Food Pantry at boothbayregionfoodpantry.org.