Wiscasset’s Help Yourself Shelf Food Pantry (HYS) is happy to report it is the recipient of the funds raised through Shaw’s Give Back Where It Counts program for April. A dollar for each of the special reusable bags bought at Wiscasset Shaw’s will go toward buying supplies for HYS. Wiscasset Shaw’s has been a longtime supporter of the Pantry’s mission of easing the food insecurity of those who access it.

HYS will continue its modifications of being open each Thursday from 3:30 to 5:30 for drive up outside access at its 12 Hodge St. location. A return to partial inside access has been put in practice. The present regimen consists of the Pantry providing a box of shelf stable foods, with fresh produce, bakery items and mixed items displayed inside St. Philip’s hall for people to select. Paper products, hygiene items and pet food are also available upon request. HYS continues trying to balance safety for volunteers and clients alike while also trying to provide as much client autonomy as possible.  

The Shelf is always in need of volunteer help. There are several options, from building the boxes on Tuesdays, to helping with the fresh rescue program Tuesdays through Thursdays, to being part of the Thursday afternoon crew or the Thursday morning home delivery crew. Please consider becoming part of this effort. Many of us have been in need of supplemental food at one time or another, and this is a great way to give back or pay it forward. 

To explore this volunteer possibility or find out more about HYS, call St. Philip’s at 882-7184, or email helpyourselfshelf@gmail. Visit https://helpyourselfshelf.wordpress.com, or like us at https://www.facebook.com/HelpYourselfShelfFoodPantry/