First County Foundation

04/22/2026

Meet Rob Boyd, the heart behind the First County Food Pantry. Rob’s journey with us is special. He was once a client of our shelter program, and now he’s the First County Food Pantry Manager, making sure his neighbors in York County, Maine, have what they need.

Rob is a huge advocate for our "market-style" shopping. Our customers choose their own deli meats, fresh produce, and breads - giving people choice and dignity.

We’re seeing more customers than ever, up to 150 people every day the doors are open. We couldn't do it without our 35 dedicated volunteers, amazing local farm partners, and everyone who has donated food or funds.

Want to support our mission? Visit https://yorkcountyfcf.org/donate.

04/10/2026

For Jen Ouellette, Deputy Director of the Sanford Housing Authority and a member of the York County Behavioral Health Committee, community service isn't just a passion; it's a legacy. Raised in Springvale and Alfred, Jen inherited a powerful ethos from her parents: "If you can give back, you ought to."

Click link below to read the full story about Jen and her vision for a "continuum of care under one roof" that laid the foundation for the York County Substance Use Treatment and Recovery Center in Alfred, Maine.

For Jen Ouellette, Deputy Director of the Sanford Housing Authority and a member of the York County Behavioral Health Committee, community service isn't just a passion; it's a legacy. Raised in Springvale and Alfred, Jen inherited a powerful ethos from her parents: "If you can give back, you ought t...

04/07/2026

It’s Training Tuesday!

We are excited to highlight upcoming Corrections Training courses at the York County Regional Training Facility in Alfred, Maine.

Report Writing for Corrections Officers (May 14): This class focuses on the foundations of quality reports, tackling errors, and narrative rules. Covers preparation, proofreading, and warrant affidavits.

"Honoring the Badge" Police Ethics Course (Sept 9): A deep dive into ethics and officer wellness to fortify agency culture and prevent misconduct.

Drug Enforcement for Modern Officers "DEMO" (Sept 28-Oct 1): Focuses on investigative techniques and scenario-based exercises for drug investigations.

Crisis Intervention Team Training - Jails & Prisons program (Fall 2026): A 40-hour program to help identify crises and promote better outcomes for individuals with serious mental illness or trauma.

To support courses like these that provide our first responders with specialized training and keep our communities safe, visit https://yorkcountyfcf.org/training-center/

04/03/2026

Currently, Maine faces a significant challenge: our state has the highest food insecurity rate in New England, with 1 in 8 residents, and 1 in 5 children facing hunger.

At the First County Food Pantry, we are dedicated to responding to this need with compassion. We serve over 3,000 neighbors every month, ensuring that no resident in York County, Maine, faces food insecurity without a professional safety net.

We invite those in need of assistance to visit us at 5 Swetts Bridge Rd. in Alfred. Our doors are open every Tuesday and Friday from 11 AM to 3 PM. We provide a market-style environment designed to offer a dignified experience, allowing individuals to select the nutritious groceries and fresh produce that best suit their families.

Standing together as a community means ensuring these vital resources remain available for all. For those who are in a position to contribute to this essential mission, your support directly impacts the lives of our neighbors across York County, Maine.

Support our mission here: https://yorkcountyfcf.org/food-pantry/

04/01/2026

Born and raised in Maine, Candice Simeoni has spent 22 years protecting our neighbors. As an Elder Crimes Investigator and First County Foundation board member, she knows that keeping York County, Maine safe requires specialized skills: but for years, local first responders had to travel far for training.

That’s why the York County First Responder Training Facility is such a game-changer. It brings state-of-the-art training right here to our community, allowing Candice to share her vital elder justice curriculum close to home.

Sitting next door, the York County Substance Use Treatment and Recovery Center (opening in 2026) will provide a direct path to healing when a crisis call comes in. As Candice says, it "brings back that human touch," giving our heroes the confidence that real help is available.

Your support helps us equip our first responders and care for our vulnerable neighbors. Whether it’s $10 or $50, your gift makes a meaningful difference.

Join us in strengthening our community: https://yorkcountyfcf.org/donate

03/25/2026

Training Tuesday: Enhancing Public Safety at the York County Regional Training Facility.

The York County First Regional Training Facility in York County, Maine, is pleased to announce our upcoming specialized fire rescue courses for spring and summer 2026. These programs are designed to provide advanced skills for both experienced personnel and those seeking to expand their technical capabilities.

Scheduled courses include:
- Rapid Intervention Teams (April): Advanced techniques for high-stakes rescue scenarios.
- Rope and Low Angle Rescue (May): Technical proficiency for non-level terrain operations.
- Man vs. Machine (June): Specialized strategies for heavy machinery extrications.

Our commitment to providing transformational solutions ensures that first responders in York County, Maine, have access to state-of-the-art training and resources.

To secure your placement or view more information, please visit our registration portal: https://www.yorkcountymaine.gov/rtc/fire-rescue

03/17/2026

It's Training Tuesday!

At the York County Regional Training Facility in Alfred, Maine, we are dedicated to providing comprehensive and professional training for the next generation of emergency medical providers. Our various EMS classes offer rigorous, hands-on instruction led by experienced professionals, ensuring that every student is prepared for the complexities of real-world emergency response.

From foundational certifications to advanced skills training, the Training Facility is equipped with state-of-the-art simulation tools to foster an environment of excellence and clinical proficiency. We take pride in supporting the professional development of those who serve our communities with skill and compassion.

View our full list of EMS course offerings and register for upcoming classes at: https://www.yorkcountymaine.gov/rtc/ems

03/10/2026

It’s Training Tuesday!

Are you ready to take a seat in one of the state of the art classrooms at the York County Regional Training Center and hone your skills as a first responder? Whether you’re looking for specialized tactical drills or advanced EMS certifications, we’ve got a seat for you.

Check out the full schedule at https://www.yorkcountymaine.gov/rtc

03/10/2026

First County Foundation Board Chair Billy Shore speaks about the fire tower at the York County Regional Training Center.

03/06/2026

Happy Community Friday!

In York County, Maine, we believe that a community is only as strong as the neighbors who look out for one another. Supporting each other isn’t just a kind gesture; it’s how we build a healthy, resilient foundation where everyone has the chance to thrive. When we ensure our neighbors are cared for, our entire county becomes a safer and more connected place to live.

That’s exactly why the First County Food Pantry exists. We’ve created a market-style experience so that residents can choose their own fresh food with the dignity they deserve. It’s about more than just groceries, it’s about making sure every person in York County, Maine feels respected and valued.

Support First County Food Pantry at https://yorkcountyfcf.org/food-pantry/

02/25/2026

We are honored that Hannaford Supermarkets has chosen First County Food Pantry as their March Fight Hunger Bag Program partner. For every $2.50 reusable Fight Hunger bag sold at Wells Hannaford, 107 Wells Plaza, Route 1 throughout March, First County Food Pantry will receive $1. That means every dollar we receive from this program will help us feed our neighbors.

First County Food Pantry helps feed about 1,000 families – around 3,000 York County residents – each month, including more than 900 children. We thank Hannaford, and we thank you.