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Good Shepherd Food Bank President Heather Paquette poses for a photo with Hamden panelists Executive Director of the Health Island Project Rene Colson; Maine Credit Union League President Elise Baldacci; and Good Shepherd Food Bank Chief Advancement Officer Robin McCarthy.
Addressing food insecurity takes more than good intentions. It needs strong partnerships built on shared purpose and sustained commitment. Credit unions understand this well because cooperation is part of our DNA, and our partners at Good Shepherd Food Bank share that same commitment.
To bring this spirit of collaboration to life, Good Shepherd Food Bank recently hosted two Coffee and Collaboration events in Hampden and Portland. These gatherings brought together trusted partners to discuss the current state of hunger in Maine, and the critical role coordinated efforts play in meeting growing needs. With food insecurity at its highest level in a decade, the conversations underscored the vital contributions of both businesses and nonprofits within Maine’s food security ecosystem.
Heather Paquette, President of Good Shepherd Food Bank, led panel discussions at both events, which included League President Elise Baldacci. In Hampden, additional panelists included Rene Colson of Healthy Island Project, Robin McCarthy of Good Shepherd Food Bank, and Georgia Jenkins of Good Shepherd Food Bank. In Portland, Baldacci was joined by Megan Shapiro-Ross of Footprints Food Pantry and Mainspring, along with Food Bank representatives.
“It was an honor to participate in these events and share the work Maine credit unions are doing to address food insecurity,” said Baldacci. “Our industry has a longstanding partnership with the Food Bank, and it was meaningful to connect with others who support their mission.”
The events also provided an opportunity for the Food Bank to recognize key partners, including several Maine credit unions who participated, for their ongoing support and advocacy. At the same time, discussions highlighted the urgency of the moment. Demand for food assistance continues to rise as more working families and individuals face challenges making ends meet.
“I was inspired by the work of both the Healthy Island Project and Footprints Food Pantry and how they are meeting the growing needs of their communities,” Baldacci added. “Their commitment strengthens our collective efforts to end hunger and serves as a powerful reminder of what can be achieved when we remain open to new approaches and come together to support one another.”
Credit unions have long played a meaningful role in strengthening their communities through financial support, education, advocacy, and partnerships. Every effort matters. Building a Maine where no one goes hungry will require continued collaboration, a message that resonated clearly throughout these conversations.