More Than Just Food

More Than Just Food

Food insecurity is defined as “the state of not having reliable access to enough healthy food that you can afford” (Oxford Learner’s Dictionary).

Many people assume that as long as someone isn’t skipping meals, they aren’t food insecure. But food insecurity goes far deeper than simply having a full stomach. Nutrition, overall health, and quality of life all play a role.

According to the New Hampshire Food Bank, “the state’s food insecurity numbers remain highest in Coös County, where an estimated 13.3% of the population experiences food insecurity” (NH Food Bank). Of those, more than 1 in 5 are children. In fact, a 2011 Carsey Institute study described Berlin as a “food desert,” citing “limited access to affordable and nutritious food” (NHPR).

With these statistics in mind, it became clear that many Berlin Public Housing residents were also likely facing food insecurity. Yet accessing support can be difficult. Barriers include mobility challenges, transportation limitations, and even mental health or cognitive impairments.

As a Resident Service Coordinator, part of my role is to recognize these barriers and work to bridge the gaps. Almost two years ago, with the help of a resident who volunteers at Feeding Hope Food Pantry, I connected with pantry coordinator Sarah Swift to explore bringing food directly to our community. Even without a survey, I knew if one resident needed help, there were certainly more.

Since partnering with Feeding Hope, between 21 percent and 45 percent of Berlin Housing residents have received food support over the past two years. Together, we have distributed 13,545 pounds of food, which is nearly 6.7 tons, through 387 food boxes. Each box averaged 35 pounds and was tailored to residents’ specific needs and requests, ensuring the food provided was both thoughtful and useful.

To reach residents with limited mobility or transportation, Public Housing staff hand-delivered every box. These visits offered more than food. They created moments of connection, care, and reassurance. Home-delivered food boxes have also helped open up conversations and connect residents and staff on a deeper level.

This partnership shows the importance of working together as a community. Public Housing staff could not do this work alone, and the Feeding Hope Food Pantry could not reach as many residents without this collaboration. By joining efforts, we have been able to provide not only food but also support, encouragement, and a stronger sense of community. The impact reaches far beyond the food itself.

To learn more about the Feeding Hope Food Pantry, visit berlinharvest.org/feeding-hope-food-pantry.html or call (603) 752-5374. The pantry is located at Harvest Christian Fellowship, 219 Willow Street, Berlin, and is open Tuesdays and Wednesdays from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. and Thursdays from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m.

Pictured (L–R): Kirstan Knowlton, Resident Service Coordinator, Berlin Public Housing; Joanie Pettengill, Pantry Volunteer; Shawn Magee, Pantry Volunteer. Back row (L–R): Christin Bernier, Executive Director, Berlin Housing Authority; and Sarah Swift, Feeding Hope Food Pantry.

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Works Cited
Oxford Learner's Dictionary. (2025, September 18). Food insecurity definition.
NHPR. (2016, January 9). Living In A "Food Desert," Berlin Ponders A Food Co-op. Retrieved from NHPR.
NH Food Bank. (2024, May 28). Taking Action to Combat 43.9% Increase in Food Insecurity Statewide. Retrieved from NH Food Bank.