While Mainers brace for an end to SNAP benefits in the coming week due to the ongoing government shutdown, community members are stepping up.
A number of businesses and restaurants across the state are offering meal deals to government workers, SNAP recipients and families in need.
We compiled the list below, but if you know of others or if you’re a business offering food assistance to Mainers affected by the loss of SNAP benefits or the government shutdown, email us at web@bangordailynews.com.
The Bakehouse, Orrington
Delivering fresh loaves of bread to the Greater Bangor community.
Blaze, Multiple Locations
All Blaze locations will offer 50% off the entire food menu and non-alcoholic drinks (regularly priced items) to current EBT SNAP recipients, Monday through Thursday for both lunch and dinner, and Sundays from 2 p.m. to close. Customers will be asked to show their EBT/SNAP card at checkout.
Bucksport and Ellsworth Nutrition Cafes
Community-sponsored meal delivery.
The Dinner Bell, Gorham
Community-sponsored free meals to those in need.
Fresh Off The Farm, Rockport
Free bags of vegetables for SNAP recipients.
Family Time Dine and Play, Auburn
Six free pizzas a day to people in need.
Hailey’s Kitchen, Windham
Supporting donations to local food pantries, and free meals to those in need.
Just-In-Time Recreation, Lewiston
Children under the age of 12 are eligible for two free hot dogs and french fries, or a grilled cheese sandwich and french fries, until SNAP benefits are reinstated. Deal is available for 4 p.m. to 9 p.m., Tuesdays through Sundays.
Government employees who show ID will be able to purchase individual meals or family meal packs for 50% off until the government shutdown has ended.
Nutty Nettie’s Cafe, Auburn
Customers under the age of 17 will eat for free.
Provender Kitchen and Bar, Ellsworth
Providing free meals to local Loaves and Fishes Food Pantry.
Sam’s Italian Foods, Multiple Locations
Starting Nov. 1, children 12 and under (2 per family limit) will be eligible for a free 10-inch cheese pizza. Adults accompanying the children qualify for a 10% discount on their food with proof of an EBT/SNAP card.
Taj Indian and Indo-Chinese Cuisine, South Portland
The restaurant is offering meals to those in need because people are losing SNAP benefits. Contact the establishment at tajholidaymeals@gmail.com if you or someone you know is in need.
Whale’s Tale, Boothbay
The SNAP Substitute Menu will allow SNAP recipients from the peninsula to come to the Whale’s Tale once a week for a meal (no matter the family’s size). The menu includes one appetizer, three entrees (pick one), a choice of coffee, tea, or soda, and, for dessert, a scoop of vanilla ice cream. Once the meal is completed, customers will be asked to show their SNAP card at checkout to get the complimentary meal.