United Way Of Greater Nashua​ Organizes ​Spring 'Pop-Up Pantries'

NASHUA, NH — As spring blooms in Nashua, so does the opportunity for residents to access free fresh food through the "Pop-Up Pantries" organized by United Way of Greater Nashua with food provided by Nashua Soup Kitchen and Shelter.

Since their inception in April 2020, these pop-up pantries have been a vital resource for the community, offering groceries to families in need.

With more than 34,371 interactions logged, United Way of Greater Nashua volunteers have been tirelessly serving the community, ensuring that no one goes hungry. These pop-up pantries rotate locations throughout Nashua every weekday, providing convenient access to essential food items.

Janice Dumont, a dedicated volunteer since the program's inception, shares her insights gained from over two years of service. Initially involved in delivering lunches to homebound students during the height of the pandemic, Dumont transitioned to supporting various pantry locations when the program began.

At the Arlington St. Pop-Up, which has been hosted by the Arlington St. Community Center for the past several years, Dumont and her fellow volunteers work diligently to distribute food items sourced from Nashua Soup Kitchen and Shelter and United Way offices. She notes the consistent demand for fruits and meats among pantry visitors, emphasizing the community's appreciation for fresh, nutritious offerings.

Reflecting on her volunteer experience, Dumont expresses gratitude for the opportunity to connect with the Nashua community on a deeper level, gaining insight into the prevalent need for food assistance.

In addition to the Pop-Up Pantries, several local food pantries, including Tolles Street Mission, Corpus Christi Food Pantry, Southern NH Rescue Mission, Nashua Soup Kitchen and Shelter, and the Salvation Army, provide essential support to residents facing food insecurity. United Way of Greater Nashua coordinates weekly food drives to bolster these efforts and welcomes volunteers to participate in collection efforts.

As warmer weather approaches, United Way of Greater Nashua’s volunteers will move outside, distributing food at five outdoor locations around downtown Nashua from 11 a.m. to noon from April 22 through Nov. 1.

For those interested in volunteering or making donations, visit United Way's website or contact United Way at info@unitedwaynashua.org or 603-882-4011. Nonperishable food donations are accepted at the United Way of Greater Nashua office, located at 20 Broad St. in Nashua, on weekdays between 9:30 a.m. and 4:30 p.m.

This spring, the Pop-Up Pantries can be found at:

• Mondays – Harbor Care, 45 High St.
• Tuesdays - Major Drive, 101 Major Drive
• Wednesdays - Lamprey Health Care, 22 Prospect St.
• Thursdays – River Pines Mobile Home Park, 34 Birch River Trail
• Fridays – Sullivan Terrace, 56 Tyler St.

All Pop-Ups run from 11 a.m. to noon.

For more information about this project, contact United Way at info@unitedwaynashua.org or 603-882-4011.

United Way of Greater Nashua is an independent 510(c)3 nonprofit founded in 1929 to serve the residents of Greater Nashua. Its mission is to fight for the health, education, and financial stability of every person in every community. United Way of Greater Nashua has received GuideStar and Charity Navigator’s top ratings for accountability, transparency, and financial management. For more information or to get involved as a donor or volunteer, email United Way of Greater Nashua at info@unitedwaynashua.org or visit their website at unitedwaynashua.org.

Submitted by United Way of Greater Nashua.