what nourishes us
the portland free pantry is community-led and community-built. it is fueled by mutual aid and the belief that every individual can receive and contribute to build a strong, nourished community.
the pantry is a semi-permanent, mobile free pantry and fridge open to the entire community; a space where individuals can receive and contribute items.
the pantry will offer food items, necessary essentials like hygiene products, toiletries, OTC medicines, and even clothing and winter gear. many items can and will be sourced through area organizations however, the goal is for the pantry to be filled through community engagement and support.
the pantry contains two mini fridges, shelves, and area for requests. community murals will cover its exterior walls and future plans call for self-sustaining measures including solar panels.
built on a trailer bed, the mobile pantry will serve different portland neighborhoods. by partnering with local businesses, organizations, and community members to park in accessible, satellite locations for scheduled time periods, the pantry’s reach extends to individuals and families with limited or no access to public or personal transportation. the self-serve pantry also honors autonomy; community members can access the pantry according to their schedule without an ID or proof of income.
the portland free pantry seeks to facilitate a dialogue regarding immediate community care and to create a meeting place where the community can better understand and meet its needs. the pantry project galvanizes community members to take action together to build a more egalitarian, accessible, and nourished community. solidarity not charity.
IN THE NEWS
NEWSRADIO WGN: MAINE POINTS
Author: Matt Barnard
Published: July 27, 2023
PORTLAND, Maine | We talk with Mei DW, Kristin Lash, and Anna Heath about their creation and launch of a first-of-its-kind in New England: the Portland Free Pantry. It’s a locally-conceived, locally-built, unmanned pantry on wheels that can be moved from place to place as needed. The strong community response to The Pantry’s July roll-out has served to underscore the larger issues of need facing our city, our state, and the world.
WGME 13
Author: Aysia Reed
Published: July 15, 2023
PORTLAND, Maine | Portland's Free Pantry gives families in need a hand. Open 24-7, this mobile pantry can help where the need is most. At first glance, you might not know what this trailer is. But once you step inside, you’d be surprised. It's small but making a big impact. The packed pantry is on the go, helping those in need. Shelves are stocked with snacks, canned goods, toiletries and it even has mini fridges for fresh produce.
NEWS CENTER MAINE
Author: Anne Baldridge
Published: July 8, 2023
PORTLAND, Maine | Portland welcomed a groundbreaking initiative this weekend that is transforming the way food pantries operate. The Portland Free Pantry provides a unique mobile service to the community. As the first of its kind in New England, this pantry on wheels aims to address immediate needs by offering a variety of essential resources.
EAT DRINK LUCKY
June 25, 2023 | Mobile Food Pantry On Tour
The Portland Free Pantry is making its first stop soon at host Urban Farm Fermentory. This mobile free food and supply pantry was built by community members and instructors in partnership with We Built This and operates on a “give what you can and take what you need” philosophy. Saco Credit Union is stocking the pantry for its opening day and they are currently seeking businesses and organizations to serve as host/satellite locations, which will change every 1-2 weeks. They even have an open call for mural designers […] with a public vote in July. Each chosen mural will receive a $750 stipend.
NEWS CENTER MAINE
Author: Chloe Teboe (NEWS CENTER Maine)
Published: June 19, 2023
PORTLAND, Maine | The Portland Free Pantry is on a trailer that will move around Maine's largest city to serve people in need. It will be anonymous and open likely 24 hours a day.
