When does a wagon become a pantry?

The answer is when it is the Community Center’s little red wagon. Between Aug. 8 and 20, the center will collect donations of non-perishable food for the region’s food pantry. Those visiting the center between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. may leave the donations in the little red wagon located just inside the door. A list of preferred non-perishable items may be obtained by visiting the center in the Meadow Mall, Boothbay Harbor or by calling 633-9876.

The idea of offering the center as an additional collection point was raised by Jane Good, center director, who told the pantry: “We want to do this.” The pantry was delighted with the suggestion.

Fleet Davies, who serves as the pantry’s co-president with Tom Wilson, explained its work in a recent interview with the Register. The work is seasonless, ongoing and even incorporates holiday meals for those in need. “Thanksgiving and Christmas boxes are distributed, as well.”

The pantry was started in 1985 by area ministers and has continued to grow since then. The pantry is located in the basement of the Boothbay Harbor Congregational Church.

It serves Boothbay, Boothbay Harbor, Edgecomb and Southport and is open on Fridays between noon and 2 p.m., with the exception of the Friday after Thanksgiving. Recently, the pantry has added the second Monday of each month from 4 to 6 p.m.

In 2015, the all-volunteer group had 226 families with 538 members visit the pantry during the course of the year. Together the volunteers work hundreds of hours each month stocking the pantry with discounted or free food from generous contributors.

“We are picking up food about every other day,” Davies said. Contributors include Hannaford, Brown’s Farm Stand, the Morris Farm and other local farms.

The amount of food provided to each family depends on its size and Davies explains that there is a qualification process. The pantry requires that participating families must live on the peninsula. Proof of residence varies, but a utility bill or other bill or lease may be used and families must meet the income guidelines for the emergency food assistance program to qualify.

Those wishing to contribute financially may do so by sending their contribution to P.O. Box 63, East Boothbay, ME, 04544, or by calling 350-4077. “We are grateful for every check, no matter if it’s $10 or $1,000,” Davies said.