NASHUA – As spring blooms, so does the opportunity for residents to access free fresh food through the Pop-Up Pantries organized by the United Way of Greater Nashua with food provided by the 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. The 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 more than 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 Street Pop-Up, which has been hosted by the Arlington Street Community Center for the past several years, Dumont and her fellow volunteers work diligently to distribute food items sourced from the 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 the Tolles Street Mission, the Corpus Christi Food Pantry, the Southern New Hampshire Rescue Mission, the Nashua Soup Kitchen and Shelter and the Salvation Army, provide essential support to residents facing food insecurity. The 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 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, please visit the United Way’s website or contact the United Way at info@unitedwaynashua.org or 603-882-4011. Nonperishable food donations are accepted at the United Way office at 20 Broad St. 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 Dr.

Wednesdays – Lamprey Health Care, 22 Prospect St.

Thursdays – River Pines Mobile Home Park, 34 Birch River Trail

Fridays – Sullivan Terrace, 56 Tyler St.

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