BANGOR — One of the ways Northern Light Eastern Maine Medical Center supports community members experiencing food insecurity is by hosting an annual food drive to kick off the holiday season. In November, teams at the medical center took part in a Food Drive Face-off 10K Challenge, which brought in an impressive 7,305 pounds of food that will fill the shelves in the Community Cupboard, a pantry located on the State Street campus.
“We are thrilled to celebrate the compassion and generosity demonstrated by our staff this holiday season,” says Stacey Coventry, director, community engagement, Northern Light Eastern Maine Medical Center. “We set a lofty goal, and employees rose to the challenge by tripling what we collected last year.”
In addition to the food drive, Northern Light Eastern Maine Medical Center is partnering with Hannaford Supermarkets, who committed to donating $5,000 in gift cards to continue to support the needs of the Community Cupboard.
“At Hannaford, we believe access to fresh, nutritious food is a critical component to ensuring the overall health of our families and our community,” said Eric Strout, store manager, Bangor Hannaford Supermarkets. “We are proud to partner with the Eastern Maine Medical Center Community Cupboard and Good Shepherd Food Bank to break down barriers individuals face to getting the healthy food their bodies and minds need. We look forward to our continued work to cultivate thriving communities.”
Since opening in April 2024, the medical center’s Community Cupboard has served more than 1,700 individuals and it’s estimated that the need for support may continue to grow.
“We are so grateful for the support, generosity, and partnerships with Hannaford Supermarkets and Good Shepherd Food Bank who make our Community Cupboard possible,” continues Coventry. “Together we can help reduce food insecurity in our communities by coming together to feed our neighbors in need.”
Individuals interested in supporting the Community Cupboard may visit northernlighthealth.org/giveemmc and choose “Food Insecurity Program” from the drop-down menu.
