Justin Chenette is the York County commissioner for Saco, Old Orchard Beach, Hollis, and Buxton, and a former state senator.
Food nourishes not just our bodies, but also our spirits. Unfortunately, in the U.S., access to good food isn’t a right for everyone. Food insecurity affects many, even in places like York County, and it’s a pressing issue that needs our attention.
This issue is close to my heart. I grew up depending on food assistance, public housing, and support from the community. My mother worked tirelessly as a single parent, yet sometimes her income wasn’t enough. I keep a food stamp from that time as a reminder of how fragile financial stability can be. It highlights why social safety nets are so essential.
Food insecurity can strike anyone. One unexpected job loss or medical bill can lead to a crisis. Recent studies show that over 60% of Americans live paycheck to paycheck, emphasizing how precarious our financial situations can be.
In Maine, about 192,000 people face food insecurity — nearly 14% of our population. Alarmingly, 1 in 5 children is included in this statistic, making Maine the state with the highest rate in New England. In York County alone, around 26,000 residents, including 7,000 children, struggle with hunger.
When we found out that the York County Shelters Program had to close its regional food pantry due to financial issues, we knew action was necessary. This pantry was vital for many residents, especially in rural areas where food resources are scarce. Its closure would mean a major setback for those in need.
The richest nation should not allow anyone to go hungry. It’s a moral failure when food is available, yet people suffer. I advocated for the county to oversee this pantry’s operations, and within a month, my fellow commissioners approved our intervention.
Swift action from government is rare, but the urgency here demanded it. We quickly allocated $25,000 from our contingency fund to keep the pantry running and later approved an additional $100,000 for its annual budget. This decision reflects our commitment to our community’s needs.
Today, the First County Food Pantry is thriving. With support from the Good Shepherd Food Bank, we utilize private donations, grants, and local volunteers to amplify our impact. Our pantry collaborates with grocery stores to reduce food waste, ensuring our shelves are stocked regularly.
We now serve over 3,000 residents each month, with special hours during the holidays. Located at 5 Swetts Bridge Road in Alfred, the pantry is open Tuesdays and Fridays from noon to 3 p.m.
This initiative is a testament to how local government can play a pivotal role in addressing important issues like food insecurity. The York County Commission is proving that government action can ensure that no neighbor is left hungry.
Experts emphasize the importance of community-driven solutions to food insecurity. According to a report from the Feeding America, communities that come together to support local foods can dramatically reduce hunger rates. Our pantry is a living example of this collaborative effort.
