The Upper Valley Haven
Be Kind. Be Thoughtful. Be Helpful.
The Food Shelf
Families and individuals in need of food are referred to The Haven’s Food Shelf by area churches, state and local agencies, healthcare workers, therapists, and veterans’ groups. During a Food Shelf visit, families “shop” the shelf, selecting from a wide range of non-perishable items, meat, and fresh produce. Families receive a week’s worth of food during their visit and are allowed one visit per month.
The Haven has witnessed a steady increase in the use of its Food Shelf in recent years. We account for these increases because of the high price of fuel and the continually increasing housing costs in the state of Vermont. In 2006, The Haven’s Food Shelf provided groceries on 11,721 occasions to individuals from 1,395 different families. This fiscal year, The Haven has increased the budget for food shelf expenses by 40%.
Most of the items in The Haven’s Food Shelf are purchased through the Vermont Food Bank, at the extremely low price of $0.18 per pound. We also receive generous donations of food from individuals, businesses, churches, and civic groups throughout the year. Food drives are always welcome. Contact for a list of food items we always need.
“I don’t have to panic anymore. I know I can use the Food Shelf and work with other local agencies to get us through.”
—Sergio Colon,
former Haven shelter guest & father of two sons