FAIRFIELD CENTER — The community has responded generously after the Pet Food Pantry announced in September that it was running low on food, money and energy.

Alice Pincoske said she is awestruck by the outpouring of support for the pantry, not to mention the new volunteers who have stepped forward to join the group.

Pincoske, who has helped manage the nonprofit organization for more than two years, said in the last three weeks people have donated about $3,000, as well as food and pet treats, to the pantry.

She said one donor, whose dog recently died, drove from Boothbay Harbor to deliver pet food.

A local business, Pincoske said, is also helping to make a difference. The Red Barn Restaurant, which recently opened a drive-through on Bay Street in Winslow, is donating its money from its tip jar during its first month of business to the pantry.

It is also encouraging customers to bring a bag of pet food to the restaurant Oct. 29. In return, Pincoske said diners will get a discount on a meal.

Pincoske said the community’s generosity has ensured that about 2,000 pounds of food will be available each month for the next three to four months for pets in needy homes.

Starting in November, the pantry will have a new home: Pleasant Street Methodist Church, at 61 Pleasant St., Waterville.

The move was necessary as Victor Grange, where the pantry has been distributing pet food the fourth Friday monthly in Fairfield Center, is buttoning up Nov. 1 for the winter.

Pincoske said the pantry will distribute food as usual from 2 to 4 p.m. Oct. 28 at Victor Grange.

In November, when the pantry begins operating out of Pleasant Street Methodist Church, the distribution day will switch to the second Friday monthly, starting Nov. 11. The hours will remain the same.

In addition to the monetary and food donations, pantry President Joe Fisher was excited about the nine new volunteers who have joined the group. He said the pantry’s volunteer force has about doubled. An Eagle Scout candidate was one of the newcomers who attended the pantry’s meeting Wednesday night, according to Pincoske.

“They’ve breathed a whole new life into the group,” Pincoske said.

Others interested in volunteering or donating may contact the Pet Food Pantry at 1788 River Road, Clinton, ME 04927; [email protected]; or 409-5904.

Beth Staples — 861-9252

[email protected]