As an expert in the field of food programs, I have had the privilege of working closely with various organizations in Southern New Hampshire that provide food assistance to individuals and families in need. In this article, I will be sharing my insights on the most popular and impactful food programs in the region.
The New Hampshire Food Bank
Established in 1984, the New Hampshire Food Bank has been a pillar of support for those facing food insecurity for over three decades. They work with a network of over 400 partner agencies, including food pantries, soup kitchens, and shelters, to distribute food to those in need. The New Hampshire Food Bank offers a range of programs to address different needs within the community. Their Mobile Food Pantry program brings fresh produce and other nutritious foods directly to underserved areas.They also have a Backpack Program that provides children with nutritious meals over the weekends when they do not have access to school meals. Additionally, their Cooking Matters program teaches individuals how to prepare healthy meals on a budget.
Food insecurity
is a major issue in Southern New Hampshire, and the New Hampshire Food Bank is working tirelessly to address it. In 2020 alone, they distributed over 14 million pounds of food, providing over 11 million meals to individuals and families in need.The Community Action Program of Belknap-Merrimack Counties
The Community Action Program of Belknap-Merrimack Counties (CAPBM) is another prominent organization that offers food assistance in Southern New Hampshire. They have been serving the community since 1965 and have various programs aimed at addressing food insecurity. One of their most popular programs is the Emergency Food Assistance Program (EFAP), which provides individuals and families with a three-day supply of food.They also have a Commodity Supplemental Food Program (CSFP) that provides monthly food packages to low-income seniors. Additionally, they offer nutrition education and cooking classes to help individuals make healthier food choices. What sets CAPBM apart is their focus on addressing the root causes of food insecurity. They offer various services, such as job training and financial assistance, to help individuals and families become self-sufficient and break the cycle of poverty.
The Nashua Soup Kitchen & Shelter
The Nashua Soup Kitchen & Shelter (NSKS) is a non-profit organization that has been providing food assistance to the community since 1981. They offer various programs, including a soup kitchen, food pantry, and emergency shelter, to address the immediate needs of individuals and families. Their soup kitchen serves hot meals six days a week, providing over 100,000 meals annually. Their food pantry offers a variety of non-perishable items, fresh produce, and meat to individuals and families in need.They also have an emergency shelter that provides a safe place for individuals experiencing homelessness. In addition to their food programs, NSKS also offers case management services to help individuals access resources and services that can improve their overall well-being. They also have a workforce development program that helps individuals gain employment and become self-sufficient.
The Granite State Dairy Promotion
While not a traditional food assistance program, the Granite State Dairy Promotion is worth mentioning for its impact on the community's food security. This organization works with local dairy farmers to provide milk to food banks and other organizations that serve individuals and families in need. The Granite State Dairy Promotion's Milk Matters program has been running since 2014 and has provided over 1.5 million servings of milk to those in need. Milk is a highly nutritious and often expensive item, making it difficult for food-insecure individuals and families to access.This program not only provides them with a much-needed source of nutrition but also supports local dairy farmers.
