ROCHESTER — For more than 40 years, neighbors in need of food assistance turned to Gerry’s Food Pantry, now part of the Share Fund. What began as a one-man operation helping a few dozen families has grown into a well-organized operation that serves more than 750 families each month.
Recent visitors to Gerry’s Food Pantry were greeted with a familiar welcoming smile and the latest of many changes as the Share Fund evolves to support the community.
The events of the past few years, Covid and rising housing and food costs, among other challenges, have increased the number of households suffering from food insecurity from 240 families to over 750. “To meet this challenge, we must change,” says Skip Smith, executive director of the Share Fund. “And change gives us the opportunity to improve,” he adds.
The latest change introduces the option of allowing customers to make their own choices when shopping. Until recently, food aid was delivered in the form of a pre-picked basket that included canned goods, packaged foods, bread, deli meats, desserts, milk, eggs and meat. Since July, volunteers have continued to offer frozen meat and milk, and visitors can complete their shopping by selecting their own canned goods, bread and more. The response has been positive – from both the volunteers and the customers they serve. This system gives customers more control over what they take home, allowing for better nutritional choices, less waste and more dignity.
The motto: “Neighbors helping neighbors” reflects the spirit of the Share Fund’s volunteers and staff. They serve residents of Rochester and Greater Strafford County. Clients range in age from young working couples to grandparents who suddenly have to care for their grandchildren.
In addition to a food pantry, the Share Fund also operates a diaper bank for all ages. The Community Clothing Shop is both a thrift store and a community wardrobe, offering clothing, household items, and even toys to those in need. Financial assistance for housing, heat, electricity, and medical emergencies rounds out the offerings. The Share Fund also partners with other nonprofits and government agencies to meet the needs of our neighbors.
“We continue to look for ways to make asking for the help we need a little less scary. After all, those we are helping are our neighbors,” Smith said.
The Share Fund is operated by the James Foley Center at 150 Wakefield St., Suite 5, Rochester, NH 03867.
The food distribution center is open Mondays and Wednesdays from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. and Fridays from 9 a.m. to 11 a.m.
The Community Clothing Shop is open Mondays and Wednesdays and, except during the summer months, on the second and fourth Saturday of the month from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.
