During the month of August, a remarkable event took place on Monhegan Island. It was a gathering that aimed to address the pressing issue of hunger in Lincoln County. As we approach the holiday season, it becomes increasingly important to recognize the reality of food insecurity in our communities. According to Midcoast food service providers, hunger is not just a concern; it is on the rise. The latest Map the Meal Gap study by Feeding America shows that food insecurity has increased from 10.5% in 2021 to 14% in 2022, reaching its highest rate yet. This was before the impact of the pandemic.

Volunteering and Community Support

Students like Lydia Cabot, Grace Malone, and Maya Reschke from the Seguinland Institute have been actively involved in volunteering. They take home produce from Veggies to Table to cook for their families, showing the power of community action. Erica Berman, the founder of Veggies to Table, emphasizes that many Mainers face the struggle of balancing food costs with essential expenses. "It's an unseen struggle," she says, noting that even those with full-time jobs may rely on food pantries.Groups like Healthy Lincoln County and the Midcoast Hunger Prevention Program act as a nexus, encouraging neighbors to assist one another. During the holiday season, volunteerism spikes as people come together to extend kindness.

Healthy Lincoln County's Efforts

Leifa Gordon, the Food Systems Coordinator at Healthy Lincoln County, highlights the need for awareness. "People question whether Lincoln County has 'real hunger.' As of October, 3,677 people received food stamps, and there are many more who don't qualify or haven't applied." The group runs share tables, offering locally sourced vegetables from farms like Veggies to Table, Goranson Farm, and Morning Dew Farm. Volunteers sort and box the produce and deliver it to various locations across the county.They also have partnerships with larger organizations like the YMCA in Central Lincoln County, establishing "share shelves" where families can access dry goods and meals. By making food accessible, they ensure that no one goes hungry.

Veggies to Table's Impact

Twelve years ago, when Berman and her husband moved to Newcastle, they were unaware of the severity of food insecurity. But they turned their land into Veggies to Table, a donation farm that uses climate-friendly practices. The farm delivers crops to diverse socio-economic groups, aiming to provide universal access to nutritious food.Since 2019, Veggies to Table has grown and donated over 57,168 points (47,640 meals) of organic produce. "Food is a basic right," Berman says. "We need to ensure that everyone has access to it." During the winter, the crew stays busy organizing tabling events and applying for grants. Locals are encouraged to volunteer and participate in festive events like the wreath-making class on Dec. 7.

Mid Coast Hunger Prevention Program's Initiatives

During the holiday season, the Mid Coast Hunger Prevention Program works to alleviate the financial burden on families. They offer two options for a traditional Thanksgiving meal. On Nov. 28, the soup kitchen provides a hot meal to go, and the food pantry has Thanksgiving meal kits available until Nov. 27. These kits include organic, locally grown vegetables and other essentials.Arvidson emphasizes the role of transportation as a barrier. In Brunswick, the free Brunswick Link is available, but in Bath, getting to the food access site can be challenging without a car. This January, the Bath Area Family YMCA will loan their Veggie Van to help reach more people.The food access center at 12 Tenney Way remains open through the weather, except on Dec. 25. No proof of residency or income is required for those in need.Volunteers are encouraged to get involved by contacting emartin@mchpp.org or visiting mchpp.org/volunteer. By advocating for policies that protect vulnerable populations and combat hunger stigma, everyone can make a difference.