Document Type

Article

Publication Date

12-2020

Abstract

This report provides insight into the feasibility and potential elements of a Community Food Center (CFC) within Downtown Lewiston, Maine in collaboration with St. Mary’s Nutrition Center. The feasibility of this project was assessed based on several benchmarks, which included the necessity of economic sustainability within the center and the need for expressed personal benefit in purchasing local and low-to-no-cost goods, depending on varying income levels. Survey responses and focus groups were conducted with a diverse group of residents from both Lewiston and Auburn. Focus within this study was on residents outside of the Tree-Streets area. The results of our surveys and focus groups yielded several important and informational themes. Residents were not only interested in the potential benefits of local and healthy low-cost foods but recognized the potential for the CFC to increase a sense of community within the downtown. Many great ideas were presented including a desire for increased food education, rentable event spaces, and community kitchens. Overall, our findings concluded that this preliminary research sufficiently supported the feasibility of a Community Food Center within the downtown area.

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