Maine Fishermen Step Up to Feed Neighbors in Need

In Harpswell, there is a simple idea taking hold. When people need help, neighbors step up.

Out on the water, fishermen are doing what they have always done, hauling traps and bringing in the day’s catch. But now, more of that catch is making a different kind of impact once the boats come in.

According to an article from WGME, instead of heading straight to market, some of it is being set aside for people in town who could use a hand.

The effort started after last year’s government shutdown briefly disrupted SNAP benefits, leaving some older residents unsure how they would afford groceries. That uncertainty sparked a conversation, and then action.

Local fishermen partnered with Harpswell Aging at Home, a volunteer group that prepares and delivers meals to residents. The organization relies on hundreds of volunteers who cook, pack, and drop off food to people around town several times a month.

Channel 13 reported that since December, that partnership has turned into something meaningful. Fishermen have donated more than 500 pounds of seafood, including fish, scallops, lobster, and crab. Those fresh ingredients are turned into meals like fish chowder, mac and cheese, and even lobster rolls.

For the people receiving those meals, it is more than just food.

Eighty four year old Stephen Johnson says getting out of the house is not always easy, especially with rising food costs. Having meals delivered to his door has made a real difference.

For the fishermen, it is not complicated. It might be one lobster or one fish at a time.

But in a town like Harpswell, those small gestures add up quickly.