Our Mission + Values
Our Mission: The South Portland Food Cupboard is a non-profit, volunteer-based food pantry dedicated to alleviating hunger. The cupboard organizes volunteers who are committed to the acquisition and distribution of food to hungry people throughout South Portland, Cape Elizabeth, Scarborough, and surrounding communities.
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Respect and Compassion: We treat all recipients with dignity, ensuring every interaction is rooted in respect and kindness.
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Nourishment: We are committed to providing each household with a week’s worth of nutritious food every month, prioritizing their well-being.
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Community Support: We offer guidance and connect recipients to valuable resources, including food stamps, clothing, and budget management, to empower them beyond food assistance.
Our Values:
About Us
“Feeding Neighbors In Need” since 1997
South Portland Food Cupboard is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization dedicated to alleviating hunger in South Portland, Portland, Cape Elizabeth, Scarborough, and surrounding communities throughout Cumberland and York counties. We work to ensure that individuals and families experiencing food insecurity have consistent access to nutritious food.
Our work is led by a dedicated team of four staff members and made possible through the support of more than 130 volunteers who contribute thousands of hours each year. Together with a hands-on board of directors who regularly serve during distributions, staff and volunteers work side by side to meet the needs of our community.
To qualify for our Thursday distributions and first Wednesday evening distribution, household income must fall below 185 percent of the Federal Poverty Guidelines. Tuesday distributions are open to all, with no income requirements. The pantry is open every Tuesday from 9:45 to 11:30 a.m., every Thursday from 8:30 to 11:30 AM for one visit per month, and on the first Wednesday of each month from 5:00 to 6:30 p.m. to accommodate those who are unable to attend daytime distributions.
In the past year, the South Portland Food Cupboard served 6,996 families, representing 21,981 individuals, and distributed more than 490 tons of food valued at $1,881,662. We also supported other local food distribution sites by providing an additional 93,761 pounds of food valued at $166,562. Frequent collaboration with partner organizations, welcoming volunteer groups, and the generosity of our community allow us to continue this vital work.
Every donation and every hour of support helps ensure that we are "feeding our neighbors in need."
Our History
The South Portland Food Cupboard was started in 1997 by a group of men and women from Holy Cross Church and operated out of St. John the Evangelist Church in South Portland. In 2001, the pantry applied for and received 501(c)3 status. Since then, the pantry had no formal business connection with the church but continued to benefit from the free use of space for 11 years. Because of this, the pantry did not pay rent, utilities or salaries and was able to focus completely on its mission for the first 17 years. In 2013, St. Johns closed down, and the pantry sought a new location. In November of 2013, the pantry moved into a double warehouse at 130 Thadeus Street which we outfitted to fit our needs. This spacious new home allows for greater storage and better organization. In July 0f 2017, with the retirement of founding Director, Sybil Riemensnider, we welcomed our new Executive Director, Dwayne Hopkins.