AUGUSTA, Maine — Food pantries at all seven Maine community colleges are getting upgraded equipment, storage, and additional food donations thanks to a generous $263,830 investment from Hannaford Supermarkets.
The Hannaford donation will provide $16,000 to Northern Maine Community College, for a new swipe card system, additional shelving and equipment and food, hygiene and cleaning items
“We are very grateful to Hannaford for their generosity and support for our students. These food pantries are so important and let our students know that their community is there for them,” David Daigler, president of the Maine Community College System, said.
The donation was announced at Southern Maine Community College at the Captain’s Cupboard, the college’s food pantry.
Hannaford is a long-time supporter of Maine’s community colleges, and the latest gift brings the total investment in the colleges to $1.3 million. Adding storage, refrigerators, freezers and swipe-card systems greatly expands the types of food available to students and expands access to the food pantries, many of which include non-food items such as clothing, school supplies and basic necessities.
“We are thrilled with the support from Hannaford for our food pantries at our seven community colleges,” John Fitzsimmons, president of the Foundation for Maine’s Community Colleges, said. “Last year, we had 3,994 visits to our food pantries across the state. We are doing everything we can to help students complete their programs and find a job with financial security. Hannaford has been our partner on every step of the journey.”
Previous Hannaford donations have benefited the community colleges’ culinary arts programs, equipment and facilities across the state.
