St. Philip’s Help Yourself Shelf Food Pantry would like to proffer tremendous thanks for the many contributions from individuals, groups, the First Congregational Church, the Town of Wiscasset, local banks, businesses and charitable institutions. Because of you, Help Yourself Shelf (HYS) has been able to provide both fresh and shelf-stable foods, paper products, and toiletries for people, as well as pet supplies for the four-legged members of the households each Thursday from 5 to 6 p.m.

Special appreciation goes to "Big Al" Cohen, who continues to be a solid supporter of the Pantry. With his well-honed business skills, energy, and persona, we have fallen heir to items such as display units and shopping carts that help to make the Pantry much more akin to being in the grocery store. With the nice displays, the ability for our neighbors to make their own selections in a respectful, supportive environment, we strive to make each night an enjoyable experience for all.

Each week from late spring until Thanksgiving, we are so fortunate to receive amazing fresh, quality organic produce from Twin Village Foodbank Farm and Veggies to Table. The fresh flowers they also included have brightened the days of our home-bound people in particular.

The Fresh Rescue program through Good Shepherd keeps the group of drivers and sorters busy from Monday through Thursday each week bringing foodstuffs from the local Hannaford and Shaw’s stores. This truly broadens what is available for selection.

Brill’s Bakery, about to open at 12 Washington St. in Wiscasset, has been donating its test loaves to the pantry and has pledged to continue each week. There are few things better than fresh baked bread! 

Over 40 volunteers are involved each month to keep the operation functioning as we provide for all who seek us out. Without all the strands of activity cared for, what HYS would be able to provide would be meager, indeed. It truly takes a village not only to raise a child, but also to support all the village.

As we proceed through the lean months following the largesse of the holidays, please consider donating to the Shelf, whether it be time, items for individual choosing, or funds to help purchase the larger quantities necessary for general provision. Donations of funds or goods may be mailed or brought to St. Philip’s Church, 12 Hodge St., in Wiscasset. To consider volunteering, please call St. Philip’s at 882-7184 or contact Help Yourself Shelf through its email: helpyourselfshelf@gmail.com, or Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/HelpYourselfShelfFoodPantry