United Way of Southern Maine holds United We CAN food drive in Portland
The event brought together teams from local companies to build sculptures using nonperishable food items
PORTLAND, Maine —The United Way of Southern Maine held its 10th annual United We CAN Food Drive and Sculpture Contest Friday at Back Cove in Portland.
The event brought together teams from local companies to build sculptures using nonperishable food items. The food collected will be distributed throughout Cumberland and York counties to help address food insecurity.
This year’s event had a goal of collecting enough food to provide 30,000 meals.
“4 in 10 actual statewide households, struggle with the basics. That’s rent, utilities, childcare, transportation. But it also includes food,” said Dan Coyne, president and CEO of United Way of Southern Maine.
The event has collected more than 278,000 meals over the past decade. More than 40 companies have participated, building 120 sculptures.
Brian Anderson, a Hannaford worker who participated in the event, said the opportunity to donate the food after the competition brings people together.
“The opportunity to be able to donate the cans after, you know, an event like this brings everybody together. We’re just proud to be a part of that.”
2026 Winners:
Rookie Award: Machias Savings BankBes Meal Award: HannafordMight Award: Martin’s PointMost Creative Award: Zachau ConstructionEngineering Marvel Award: CCBJudges’ Choice: Holy DonutBest in Show: WEXCommunity Choice: L.L. Bean
Friday’s event was the final United We CAN food drive and sculpture contest. United Way of Southern Maine said community needs have changed over the past decade and its efforts to address those needs will evolve as well.
Maine’s Total Coverage anchor Jon Chrisos also returned as a judge for this year’s event.
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