The East Winthrop Food Pantry says Hannaford supermarkets recent decision to limit donations to specific organizations is forcing it to close after more than 20 years. According to the KJ, Hannaford’s new policy limits donations to food pantries that are affiliated with Good Shepherd Food Bank.

The way I understand it, for Hannaford a food pantry official relationship with Good Shepherd ensures its partner pantries know how to handle the food properly and safely to minimize waste. Late last year when the East Winthrop Food Pantry learned about the changes, they applied with Good Shepard. But in the end, the ministry’s application to become a Good Shepherd affiliated food pantry was rejected. So unless something changes and fast …they will have to close.

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