NSB Reaffirms Sponsorship of Wayside Food Programs in Portland

PORTLAND—Since 1986, Wayside Food Programs in Portland has been increasing access to nutritious foods for people in need throughout southern Maine while bringing people together in the process.

“The work of Wayside strengthens our community through collaborative programming, partnerships, and volunteer opportunities. Our programs and these interactions are guided by an appreciation for our common humanity, the inherent worth of each individual, and the importance of sharing food in our communities,” said Mary Zwolinski, Executive Director of Wayside.

Wayside’s hunger relief efforts are well known throughout the state and include free community meals, mobile food pantries, and a variety of programs that provide kids with healthy snacks and offer emergency food assistance when necessary among many others.  

“One of the most amazing aspects of Wayside is the Food Rescue Program. It actually salvages food from grocery stores, wholesalers, farms, and other sources. The food is still edible and gets redirected to over 60 soup kitchens, food pantries, and other social service agencies in Maine,” said Dan Walsh, President and CEO of Norway Savings Bank. “Reducing waste, keeping food out of landfills, utilizing natural resources, and reducing food insecurity are all efforts that Norway Savings supports and Wayside is successfully achieving.”

A longtime supporter, NSB donated an additional $1,000 to Wayside this month.

“We never take it for granted that Norway Savings chooses to invest in our community through Wayside,” said Zwolinski. “We’re honored and humbled by that responsibility and are so thankful for all of the assistance we receive from donors and sponsors that help us bring families, friends, and neighbors together while sharing healthy food.”

“We love to partner with Wayside because the entire mission of the organization is really rooted in partnerships that reinforce social connection, service, and limiting an impact on the environment,” said Walsh. “NSB is grateful for its contributions to our communities and the vital work it does in bridging gaps to food access.”   

The organization will be hosting its annual Inside Wayside celebration and “FRIENDraiser” on Thursday, October 3, from 5:30 p.m. to 8 p.m. The event is held right at Wayside, located on 135 Walton Street in Portland, and offers food prepared by the Casco Bay Chapter of the American Chefs Federation, bluegrass provided by String Tide, raffle items, a live auction, and guided tours of the facility.

For more information or to purchase tickets for Inside Wayside, call 207-775-4939 or visit www.waysidemaine.org. To learn more about volunteering for Wayside Food Programs, head to www.waysidemaine.org/donate-time.