The Community Gourmet
    Volunteers preparing food

    The Community Gourmet

    Supporting Our Community Through
    Food & Care

    A grassroots effort in Southern Maine dedicated to nourishing, teaching, and caring for seniors, students, and families when they need it most.

    Over 14,000 food packages delivered since 2022

    Our Community Impact

    What started small is now a reliable source of food support for families across Southern Maine.

    14,000+
    Packages
    70,000+
    Lbs Distributed
    $280K+
    Food Value
    24,000+
    Meals Provided

    Help us continue supporting families across Southern Maine.

    Volunteer helping deliver food
    Volunteers packing bags
    Since 2022

    Growing Fast.Helping More.

    Delivering consistent meals to our Southern Maine neighbors.

    Who We Help & How We Respond

    Supporting neighbors with dignity, care, and immediate access to food when it matters most.

    Neighbors Facing Food Insecurity

    Neighbors Facing Food Insecurity

    Standing alongside individuals and families who struggle to access consistent, nutritious meals.

    Seniors & Children

    Seniors & Children

    Ensuring our most vulnerable community members receive reliable, dignified food support and care.

    Families & Pantry Users

    Families & Pantry Users

    Empowering households to supplement their food access with reliable, community-backed care packages.

    Police officer delivering emergency food access

    24/7 Emergency Access

    In partnership with local police and first responders, we deliver emergency food support—ensuring no one goes hungry, no matter the hour.

    Disaster & Crisis Relief

    Disaster & Crisis Relief

    Delivering immediate comfort and nourishment when life brings unexpected challenges.

    Our Programs

    Programs designed to nourish, support, and uplift our community.

    Meal Delivery for Seniors

    Delivering ready-to-eat meals directly to homebound seniors. We ensure they receive consistent nourishment and regular community connection.

    Learn more

    Weekend Student Support

    Supplying weekend meal packages for local students. We help them return to school nourished, focused, and ready to learn.

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    Emergency Relief Kits

    Providing rapid, 24/7 food relief for families in crisis. We deliver immediate stability and essential nutrition when emergencies strike.

    Learn more

    Hands-On Cooking Kits

    Distributing accessible meal kits with simple instructions. We empower families to build culinary confidence using basic pantry staples.

    Learn more
    Community Program Highlight

    Charlie Cart Cooking Classes

    Hands-on cooking classes powered by the Charlie Cart, teaching practical, healthy cooking skills using real ingredients. Designed to educate, empower, and nourish our community.

    Learn more about the Charlie Cart program at www.charliecart.org

    Charlie Cart Project

    Learn & Connect

    Join our community events, cooking classes, and fundraisers. Learn new skills while supporting a great cause.

    Traci Anello, Founder

    Meet Our Founder

    Founder & Executive Director • 30+ Years of Experience

    Experience. Compassion. Leadership.

    Traci Anello founded The Community Gourmet after experiencing food insecurity firsthand. Today, she leads with empathy to support families across Southern Maine.

    • Former Pastry Chef, The Arrows Restaurant
    • Created President George Bush Sr.'s birthday cake
    • Pastry Chef to the Entertainment Industry
    • Founder, Baking & Pastry Program at YCCC

    Trusted by the community. Proven through impact.

    Learn More About Our Mission

    Recognition & Press

    Honoring our commitment to serving the community

    Traci Anello was honored with the Daily Point of Light Award in 2022, presented by Neil and Lauren Bush. Created by President George H.W. Bush, this national award recognizes outstanding volunteer service.

    In 2024, she received the Outstanding Achievement Award from the Chamber of Commerce for her impact in the community.

    Most recently, Traci was recognized as one of COAST 93.1’s 20 Outstanding Women in Maine in 2026, highlighting her continued leadership and dedication to serving others.

    Daily Point of Light Award Logo
    Traci Anello and Laura Dolce - 20 Outstanding Women
    Outstanding Achievement Award

    Because No One
    Should Feel
    Forgotten
    Because No One Should
    Feel Forgotten

    Food insecurity isn’t just about hunger — it’s about dignity.
    Your support helps provide meals, restore confidence, and remind our neighbors they’re not forgotten.

    Every donation helps provide immediate food support and long-term hope.

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