Sanford Holiday Assistance
Please note: this is a live document and will be updated as resources are shared

2026 Holiday Resource Guide

Holiday Assistance Program Information for Families

⚠️ IMPORTANT REMINDER: You may only apply to ONE gift program per child. Organizations cross-reference applications.

Organization

How to Apply / Contact

Details & Deadlines

Toys for Tots

Request online at:

Toys for Tots Request Site

Online Registration: Nov 1 – Dec 8

Bring to appointment:

  • Picture ID
  • Proof of residency (utility bill, rent receipt, etc.)
  • Proof of custodial parent status (MaineCare card, school letter, etc.)

Press Herald Toy Fund

Apply online or request application by mail via email to toyfund@pressherald.com

Online Application Form

Deadline: December 1st

Serves children in need from infancy through age 16.

Salvation Army of Sanford, Maine

871 Main Street, Sanford, ME 04073

Ages 0-15

Bring 3 wishes for each child under $50

Bring child's shirt, pants, and shoe sizes

*Please note: they can not guarantee children's wishes will be granted, they will do their best to fulfill.

Sign-up Dates:

October 21st, 2026 11AM-1PM & 3PM-5PM

October 28, 2026 3PM-5PM

October 29th, 2026 11AM-1PM

November 4th, 2026 11AM-1PM & 3PM-5PM

Required Documents:

  • Photo ID
  • Proof of Address
  • Birth certificates for all children
  • Proof of income/expenses

Food Resources

Holiday Food Boxes

First County Food Pantry

Drive through holiday food boxes available.

Thanksgiving Baskets: November 22nd,23rd,and 24th. 7AM - 3PM.  

Christmas Baskets: December 22nd,23rd,and 24th 7AM-3PM for Christmas.

Address: 5 Swetts Bridge Rd, Alfred, ME 04002 Phone: (207) 324-1137

Salvation Army Thanksgiving and Christmas Food Baskets

871 Main Street, Sanford, ME 04073

Sign-up Dates:

October 21st, 2026 11AM-1PM & 3PM-5PM

October 28, 2026 3PM-5PM

October 29th, 2026 11AM-1PM

November 4th, 2026 11AM-1PM & 3PM-5PM

Required Documents:

  • Photo ID
  • Proof of Address
  • Birth certificates for all children
  • Proof of income/expenses

Holiday Meals

*Updates will be provided as community meals are identified

Ongoing Community Meals

Curtis Lake Church – Wednesday Night Bite

  • Free pizza, pasta, and salad every Wednesday, 6:00 PM – 7:00 PM (or until food runs out).
  • Address: 38 Westview Drive, Sanford, ME

New Beginnings Christian Church – Free Community Meal

  • Thursdays at 5:00 PM
  • Address: 181 Grammar Road, Sanford, ME

Ongoing Food Resources

Sanford Food Pantry

  • Address: 1204 Main St, Sanford, ME 04073
  • Hours: Mondays, 10:00 AM – 12:00 PM
  • Requirements: Sanford residents only; Photo ID required.

Salvation Army Food Pantry

  • Address: 871 Main Street, Sanford, ME 04073 | Phone: (207) 324-3134
  • Hours: Fridays, 9:00 AM – 12:00 PM

First County Food Pantry

  • Address: 5 Swetts Bridge Road, Alfred, ME 04002
  • Hours: Tuesdays and Fridays, 12:00 PM – 3:00 PM
  • All are welcome.

St. Therese of Lisieux Food Bank

  • Address: The Holy Family Church, 66 North Ave, Sanford, ME
  • Hours: Thursdays, 12:00 PM – 2:00 PM

SMHC Fresh Produce "Prescription for Health" Fridge

  • Location: Lobby at SMHC Sanford and SMHC Biddeford Hospital (near Walk-in/Lab doors)
  • Limit: One bag per visit

Sanford Backpack Program

  • Distributes shelf-stable food weekly at school to schoolchildren. Contact your school counselor for more information.

Additional Community Resources

For additional local resources, please refer to the resource guides below: