Good Shepherd Food Bank, with its extensive network of 600 hunger-relief partners, achieved a remarkable feat last year by distributing an astounding 39 million meals to Mainers facing hunger. This set a new record for the state's largest hunger-relief organization. Now, they have their eyes firmly set on an ambitious new goal - creating a future where every Maine resident enjoys food security.

Empowering Maine with Food Security

Feeding Mainers in Times of Need

Good Shepherd Food Bank, established in 1981 with a clear mission to eliminate hunger in Maine, initially set a goal to increase its output to just over 30 million meals by 2025. However, the rising tide of food insecurity has surpassed expectations, emphasizing the critical need to address hunger at its very core. "Our mission isn't merely about distributing food; it's about understanding the reasons behind more Mainers struggling to put food on the table and working towards sustainable long-term solutions," emphasizes Good Shepherd Food Bank president Heather Paquette.Photos courtesy Good Shepherd Food Bank play a crucial role in highlighting the real-life impact of their efforts. These images serve as a visual reminder of the challenges faced by many and the importance of their work.

Community-Led Approach for a Food-Secure Future

A new five-year strategic plan now takes center stage, focusing on a community-led approach. Through extensive focus groups, interviews, and surveys involving partners, community members, and stakeholders, the plan prioritizes both providing "food today" and creating sustainable pathways to long-term food security. It aligns seamlessly with Maine's Roadmap to End Hunger by 2030, with a specific focus on removing systemic barriers and building a more resilient and food-secure future. "We wanted the neighbors experiencing hunger and our partners to guide us in determining where we should allocate our time, energy, and resources," Paquette explains.In addition to distributing food, Good Shepherd Food Bank is actively engaged in raising awareness about food insecurity. They advocate for policy changes that can have a lasting impact on addressing this issue. Moreover, they are dedicated to addressing the unique needs of Maine's diverse communities. "The ultimate goal is to ensure that no one becomes overly reliant on the charitable food network in the long run. But when crises strike, we will be there, ready to provide support. That's what community is all about," Paquette emphasizes.To gain a deeper understanding of Good Shepherd Food Bank and their important work, visit gsfb.org or call 207-782-3554. #placement_689101_0_i{width:100%;max-width:550px;margin:0 auto;}