As millions of Americans face delays or reductions in federal food assistance due to the ongoing government shutdown, First County Food Pantry will serve anyone, regardless of application status or geographic location.
The pantry’s open-door policy comes at a critical time as approximately 42 million Americans who rely on the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) are experiencing benefit disruptions. In Maine, thousands of residents are among those affected by the federal funding lapse that began November 1.
“The food pantry is still open and meeting the needs of our communities, friends, and neighbors,” said Rachel Stansfield, Chief Advancement Officer for First County Foundation (FCF), which operates the pantry. “We will get through this together.”
Each month, First County Food Pantry helps feed more than 3,000 people, including 506 children in October alone, offering essential support to individuals and families across the region. The pantry operates every Tuesday and Friday from noon to 3:00 p.m. at 5 Swetts Bridge Road in Alfred.
Food banks nationwide are reporting increased demand as SNAP recipients seek alternative sources of food assistance. Unlike many emergency food programs, First County Food Pantry does not require an application process or proof of residency. The pantry also provides special holiday meals at Thanksgiving and Christmas, ensuring continued support during the season when food costs typically increase for families.
First County Foundation took over the operation of the food pantry in May 2025 when York County commissioners provided $25,000 for initial operations and $100,000 for the current fiscal year. The transition from the previous operator, York County Shelter Programs Inc., was designed to ensure stable, long-term operations.
“FCF was founded to support projects that strengthen York County, so this is a natural fit for us,” added Stansfield. “I look forward to continuing to build on our partnership with the York County Government to ensure basic needs are met in our county.”
Founded in 2024, FCF is charged with a mission “to support and strengthen safe and healthy communities by resourcing transformational solutions to the emergent needs of York County.” Click here to learn more about the pantry.