JAY — The local food cupboard has a new name and is officially an independent charitable organization.

Tri-Town Ministerial Association Food Cupboard is now Food Cupboard Jay, Livermore, Livermore Falls.

About a year ago, word was received that the association, which sponsored and supported the cupboard as a charitable and tax-exempt organization for over 30 years ago, could be discontinued. The board of directors that oversees the pantry decided to research the steps toward a nonprofit organization.

A year of research, paperwork and legal arrangements has been completed, thanks to Chairman Steven Coates and other board members.

The cupboard will pay rent and continue to operate at the St. Rose Community Center off Jewell and Horan streets in Jay. It will have independent status from any other organization, and be licensed by the state as an independent charitable organization.

Nothing will change for the operation and service to its clients. The purpose of the food pantry is to provide hunger relief and emergency supplies to those in need.

Once a month registered clients may pick up a three-day supply of staples and some perishables, depending on donations, packed according to the size of the family. The only requirement is a copy of a utility bill to establish residency in any of the three communities.

“Last month there were 158 new applications,” Secretary Martina Eastman said Nov. 1. “Some days 20-plus families show up on a Tuesday afternoon.

This year, 180 Thanksgiving baskets were distributed to area families.

The food cupboard is using more savings per month to supply food, she said. During COVID-19 fewer families came in and were able to receive more food. “Now it’s the other way around,” she said.

As is true for other food pantries, financial donations allow the food cupboard to purchase more food for every dollar, Eastman said. Some free food is obtained from Good Shepherd Food Bank in Auburn, but those amounts and other donations have decreased, she said.

Volunteers staff the pantry. New volunteers are always welcome and can pick up applications during regular pantry hours. Training is provided.

Hours of operation are Tuesdays from 2-4 p.m. and 6-8 p.m., and Wednesdays and Thursdays from 2-4 p.m.

The phone number is 207-897-2441 and messages may be left for a response when possible, but not always the same day.

The board of directors includes Coates, Eastman, Treasurer Brenda Tardif, Executive Secretary Patty Ouellette, Financial Secretary Linda Ouellette, inventory and purchase clerk Mariette Castonguay, volunteer coordinator Nancy Grimaldi and members-at-large Gerri Smith and Eric Tompkins.

Anyone who wishes to help feed hungry families in Jay, Livermore and Livermore Falls may send a check made out to and sent to FCJLLF, P.O. Box 314, Livermore Falls, ME 04254. All donations are tax deductible. A receipt and thank you will be mailed to donors.

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