We want to celebrate you and what you bring to our community.

In the past year, we faced more challenges testing our resilience and generosity. Our work focuses on sharing food to build strong connections and support systems. It remains a humbling yet heartfelt challenge. Amid these global and local challenges, many of us have found solace and joy in the companionship of our beloved pets. Despite the uncertainties, our furry friends' unwavering love and comfort remain a constant source of inspiration. Most of the Wayside team have cherished pets, seamlessly integrating them into our larger Wayside family, especially during their spontaneous visits. Upon returning home at the end of the day, my routine involves reaching out to my dogs and finding a sense of reassurance and comfort through their simple presence. They can calm me, inspire activity and play, allowing me to focus on what is in front of me now, instead of what I have not done or cannot change.

Although this year has brought heartbreak to many around the world and here in Maine, you all have continued to show up for each other through your support of Wayside’s work and especially during this Thanksgiving Season. With your help we shared Thanksgiving foods and meals with more of our community members than ever before!