When the Episcopal Diocese of Maine wanted to support their community during the global pandemic, one parishioner from Scarborough had a winning idea. Jason Briggs, who works for VIP Transport and is connected with farmers in Aroostook County and the Maine Farmers Exchange, found out that there were potatoes on the market that were going to rot, wasted unless purchased. He also recognized that his neighbors in Scarborough and Southern Maine were especially vulnerable right now. This is how the Episopal Maine ended up with 30,000 lbs of potatoes to their name. "Originally, I thought we were purchasing 3,000 lbs of potatoes, which seemed like a lot and we were trying to figure out what organization would take them all," stated John Hennessy, Director of Advocacy and Networks for the organization. "The next day I redid the numbers and realized, no, we have 30,000 lbs of potatoes to get rid of!" Luckily, Wayside was thrilled to receive the bulk of those, receiving 20,000 lbs (11 pallets) to be shared with community members in Southern Maine. The remaining 10,000 lbs went to Preble Street Resource Center in Portland, Salvation Army in Bangor, and church food pantries within their network. Thanks to Maine Farmers Exchange and Rose Transportation, the transportation of the potatoes from Northern Maine throughout the state was also donated. What an amazing thing to support and connect Northern Maine farmers and Southern Maine community members all with one kind act. Wayside thanks everyone involved for fighting hunger and strengthening our community.
