Hunger Ministries
Hammond Street Congregational Church is committed to helping alleviate food insecurity in the Bangor community through several hunger ministry programs. These programs not only provide meals and support to those in need but also offer rewarding service opportunities for members of the community.
Bangor Food Pantry
The Bangor Food Pantry, housed at Hammond Street Congregational Church, has been serving Bangor residents since 1975. This independent entity provides essential food resources to local individuals and families in need. The Pantry operates on Tuesdays and Thursdays from 9:30 a.m. to noon, except on holidays and school snow days. The pantry is open only to Bangor residents with proof of residency.
- Donations: We especially appreciate non-perishable items like pasta, peanut butter, canned goods with pop-tops, and cereals. Please ensure that all food donations are within their expiration dates.
- Monetary Donations: Every dollar donated can purchase up to six pounds of food. Your contributions are essential in helping us continue our mission.
Contact the church office at (207) 942-4381 or email bangorfoodpantry@gmail.com to find out more.
Free Bean Lunch
On the first Saturday of each month, we host a Free Bean Luncheon from 12 to 1 p.m. This event provides a hot meal, including homemade beans, hot dogs, casseroles, coleslaw, and dessert to 40-80 guests. During winter months, we also provide gently used winter outerwear to all guests who need it. If you would like to dine at our luncheon, all you have to do is show up!
Volunteer opportunities include cooking, serving, set-up, and cleanup. We also need volunteers to prepare casseroles, cookies, and other desserts. If you would like to volunteer or donate food items, please contact Ruey Yehle at ryehle2@gmail.com. Sign-up sheets are available for both food and work crew volunteers. We also accept gently used winter outerwear from November through March to distribute at the luncheon. If you have winter wear to donate, please bring it during church hours.
Meal Service at Bangor Area Homeless Shelter
On the fourth Monday of each month, our volunteers prepare and serve a meal to 40 people at the Bangor Area Homeless Shelter. Meals are typically prepared in our church kitchen, and a small team serves from the Shelter’s kitchen. Shelter residents handle all cleanup.
Join us in preparing, serving, or both. Volunteers often leave feeling that they have received more than they gave, with heartfelt gratitude and blessings from those they serve. For more details, please contact us directly.
Good Shepherd Food Bank
As part of our Outreach Service Project, we regularly volunteer at the Good Shepherd Food Bank to help sort and box produce for distribution to local food cupboards, including our own. Volunteers work in three-hour shifts and find joy in the camaraderie and friendships built during this service.
Contact Us to Get Involved or Learn More
Whether you’re interested in donating, cooking, serving, or simply offering a helping hand, your involvement is invaluable. Together, we can provide comfort, nutrition, and hope to our community. For more information or to sign up as a volunteer, please contact us online or at the church office. Thank you for your continued support and generosity! We look forward to working with you.