In the spring of 2020, the Haven’s Food Shelf operations moved to a 20’x20’ tent in our parking lot, and then a larger tent, to continue serving residents of Vermont and New Hampshire in need of groceries. There were many challenges and shifts necessary to keep customers, volunteers, and staff safe. And now, after more than a year of the COVID-19 pandemic and a chilly New England winter, we have pivoted back to the tent to welcome customers, new and returning. The set-up will provide what our neighbors need: groceries, as well as fresh air and friendly faces. Aren’t we all in need of that?
Over the past year, our Food Shelf options have developed into three offerings via curbside pick-up: Monthly Food Shelf, Daily Food Shelf, and Grab & Go.
- Monthly Food Shelf: Quick registration, visit once a month for a full order of groceries including dairy, eggs, meat, and non-perishables
- Daily Food Shelf: Quick registration, visit as needed for groceries including produce, bread, specialty items, and desserts
- Grab & Go: No registration, visit as needed for prepared foods, personal care items, and non-food items
How will it work if you’re shopping for groceries at our Food Shelf tent? After checking in with the registrar outside, customers will complete their orders for a Monthly Food Shelf and/or continue to our outdoor tent. At the large tent, you’ll choose items for a Daily Food Shelf or select your own Grab & Go items from our shed and coolers. Anyone waiting for a Monthly Food Shelf or other services can do so under our weather shelter or additional customer tents; Monthly Food Shelf orders will be delivered curbside by cart. Please note that everyone continues to wear masks at the Haven and follow hand-washing, health, and social distancing guidelines from the State of Vermont and CDC.
We hope the visible tent on Hartford Avenue in our front parking lot encourages people to stop by, even if they’ve never been a Food Shelf customer before.
For more details, please visit uppervalleyhaven.org/foodshelffaq or call 802-295-6500.
