The Midcoast Youth Center, a nonprofit organization based in Bath, Maine, has partnered with DoorDash to provide essential meals to families experiencing homelessness. This collaboration, announced in early November 2023, enables approximately 30 families to access a total of $3,000 in gift cards for deliveries via the DoorDash app.
The partnership is part of DoorDash’s Community Credits program, which aims to assist families facing transportation challenges, limited kitchen access, or difficulties in utilizing traditional food assistance programs. According to Daniela Michanie, a spokesperson for DoorDash, this initiative will enhance access to nutritious meals for housing-insecure youth and their families.
Jamie Dorr, executive director of Midcoast Youth Center, expressed optimism about the partnership’s impact. “By partnering with DoorDash, we are able to reach even more families across the greater Sagadahoc community and ensure that housing-insecure youth and their loved ones have consistent access to nourishing meals,” Dorr stated.
Families can use the gift cards for any services available on the DoorDash app, including restaurant and grocery deliveries. This flexibility is particularly beneficial for families residing in temporary accommodations such as hotel rooms, campers, or transitional apartments. Michanie explained that such resources allow families to receive hot meals and essential groceries delivered directly to them.
One Bath resident, who requested anonymity to protect her family’s privacy, shared her experience with the DoorDash credits. Her family of seven has faced homelessness for the first time after losing their home about seven months ago. “Since we are currently staying in a hotel, we don’t have many options for food,” she said. “We only have a microwave in our room, so we’re just going to use it for an actual meal from probably McDonald’s.”
The DoorDash gift cards have provided crucial support for the family during the holiday season. With five children still attending school and her fiancé working full-time, the assistance has significantly eased their burden.
This initiative aligns with other similar partnerships that DoorDash has formed with organizations such as Preble Street in Portland, Freeport Community Services, and Wayside Food Programs. These collaborations aim to expand food access for those in need and ensure that vulnerable communities receive the support they require.
As the Midcoast Youth Center and DoorDash continue their partnership, the potential for positive change in the lives of families facing challenges remains significant. The collaboration highlights the importance of community support and innovative solutions in addressing food insecurity and homelessness.
