Some quick facts about the Pantry and food insecurity in Maine. For more, see “Neighbors Helping Neighbors“
- One in seven Mainers struggles with hunger.
- One in five children in the state go hungry each day.
- Maine currently has about 400 food pantries.
- In 2007, a pantry was formed in Sweden to find ways to improve access to food for local people in need.
- In 2008, the Sweden Food Pantry moved to its current location in the Sweden Community Church.
- In 2019, the Pantry received 501(c)3 status and operates as an all-volunteer organization.
- The Pantry works with the Good Shepherd Food Bank to serve residents of Sweden, Waterford, Lovell, Fryeburg, Stoneham, and Stow. However, no one in need is ever turned away.
- In 2017, the Pantry served 902 families for a total of 1823 individuals.