Success Story

For Judie, an 80-year-old Salem resident with limited mobility and income, accessing pantries isn’t easy. She relies on her children for transportation, and their works schedules can make it tough to access pantries during open hours. 

That’s why she was excited to hear about the Food Share’s new home grocery delivery program. 

“I went, ‘Oh my gosh, look at that, they’ll deliver it to your house.’ I couldn’t believe it!” Judie says. “I called and signed up, and it’s been wonderful.” 

For many of our neighbors, visiting a pantry is not always feasible. Many people experiencing food insecurity are also lacking viable transportation; others have work schedules or other commitments that prevent them from accessing pantries during the hours they’re open, or may not be able to be out in public due to disabilities or risk of illness. 

The Food Share began piloting the home delivery program in 2021 to reach people that are unable to seek assistance at pantries. 

“We don’t want anyone stuck at home hungry,” says Megan Rivera, the Food Share’s Director of Community Programs.  

A team of volunteer drivers help deliver meals to homes in Salem and Keizer. One such volunteer is Erin, who says spending a couple hours a week making deliveries is a great way to connect with the people the program serves.  

“I think they look forward to this,” Erin says. “They’re always cheerful, always happy.” 

Judie echoes that sentiment. It’s been a huge relief to receive deliveries of fresh food and not have to worry about also making it to a pantry, she says. 

“It’s a fantastic way to treat seniors and disabled people,” Judie says. “It’s just a wonderful experience and it’s a wonderful thing for people like me.”