In the heart of Brewer, Maine, a local business is making a significant impact on the lives of those facing food insecurity. Nickerson & O'Day, a Brewer-based contractor, has once again stepped up to support the OHI Brewer Area Food Pantry, donating over 950 pounds of food just in time for the holiday season.

Bridging the Gap: Nickerson & O'Day's Commitment to the Community

Sustaining the Pantry's Mission

Nickerson & O'Day's relationship with the OHI Brewer Area Food Pantry dates back 12 years, when the company renovated the facility. Since then, they have made it a priority to return each year, contributing essential Thanksgiving staples and everyday necessities to help the pantry meet the growing demand. This year's donation, valued at $2,500, is a testament to the company's unwavering dedication to supporting the local community.

Addressing the Increasing Need

The OHI Brewer Area Food Pantry has experienced a significant surge in the number of families it serves, with over 530 families receiving assistance in the last month alone. The pantry distributes an impressive 15,000 to 16,000 pounds of food monthly, a testament to the growing need in the region. Jessica Gibby, the pantry's coordinator, explains that this increase is largely due to the rising costs of essential expenses, such as heating, medication, and other bills that tend to spike during the winter months.

The Importance of Partnerships

Partnerships like the one between Nickerson & O'Day and the OHI Brewer Area Food Pantry are crucial in ensuring that families in need have access to the resources they require, especially during the holiday season. Wade Poulton, the Executive Vice President of Nickerson & O'Day, emphasizes the significance of this donation, stating, "Specifically this time of year, we think it's really important to make this donation, because it's right around the holidays. You know, nobody ever wants to think about their friends or neighbors, you know, not having a nice Thanksgiving meal on the table."

A Year-Round Effort

The Nickerson & O'Day team has been diligently saving up reusable bags throughout the year to transport the $2,500 worth of donations to the pantry. This level of planning and dedication showcases the company's commitment to making a lasting impact on the community, not just during the holiday season, but year-round.

Opportunities to Give

The OHI Brewer Area Food Pantry welcomes all forms of support, including food, hygiene, and monetary donations. Individuals interested in contributing can contact the pantry at (207) 989-3200 to learn more about the various ways they can get involved and make a difference in the lives of those in need.