Open Table MDI believes that access to nutritious food is a basic human right. We recognize that the health, stability, and safety of our neighbors are essential to keeping our communities vibrant and resilient.

In light of the recent loss of SNAP benefits for many families and the financial hardships caused by the ongoing government shutdown, Open Table MDI has relaunched our “Neighbors Feeding Neighbors” Program to help support those most affected.

Through this program, we are offering weekly grants of $500 (for families) or $250 (for individuals or couples) in the form of grocery store gift cards to Mount Desert Island, the Outer Islands, and Trenton residents experiencing reduced income or financial stress during this difficult time.

Applications will be accepted on a rolling basis beginning November 1, 2025, and will continue as long as funds remain available.

 

ELIGIBILITY

Any individual (18+) or family who is a year-round resident of Mount Desert Island, the Outer Islands, or the Town of Trenton, and is experiencing economic hardship due to the loss of SNAP benefits or income disruptions caused by the government shutdown, is encouraged to apply.

Please note: Only one request per household, please. Once you have applied, there is no need to apply again. We will keep your application on file and notify you if you are selected.

If you need assistance completing this application or know someone who does, please call 207.664.9026 or contact us here.

 

HOW DOES IT WORK?

1. Fill out the application by clicking the “Apply Here” button on this page.

2. Each Friday, by 4:00pm, our committee will select recipient families and/or individuals/couples. Those selected will be contacted by a representative of Open Table MDI and we will coordinate either mailing your card or arranging for pick-up. A family will receive a $500 gift card and individuals/couples will receive a $250 gift card.

3. Due to confidentiality, we will not be announcing the recipient(s) publicly. If you are selected, we will contact you directly via phone or email.

4. Gift cards can be selected from Hannaford, A&B Naturals OR Southwest Harbor Food Mart. You must choose one.

5. Gift cards cannot be used for alcohol or tobacco purchases or for the purchase of other gift cards.

This program is possible due to the generous contributions of several anonymous donors and from neighbors such as you, and is offered in partnership with:

NON-DISCRIMINATION

No person shall be discriminated against on the basis of age, race, gender, gender identity and expression, country of origin, social-economic status, faith background, marital status and family structure, mental and physical ability, immigration status, or sexual orientation.

PRIVACY AND CONFLICT OF INTEREST POLICY

Open Table MDI recognizes that every person has different needs and circumstances, therefore, all applications will be reviewed on an individual basis. Open Table MDI will treat each applicant with care, dignity, and confidentiality. Open Table MDI is committed to protecting your privacy and safety. Whenever you provide personal information, we will treat this information in accordance with this policy, current United States data protection legislation, and internet best practice.

All applications received by Open Table MDI will be initially processed by our Executive Director and/or our Secretary of the Board. All names and addresses will be redacted from the applications to ensure there is no conflict of interest. The applications will then be passed along to a selection committee comprised of members of our Board and community members, who will choose a recipient based entirely on need. Board members of Open Table MDI or their immediate family are not eligible to apply.

For questions or more information, please call 207.664.9026 or contact us here.

Looking to support the Neighbors Feeding Neighbors Program? Fill out the form below and your restricted donation will be directed to this program.