The Capital Region Food Program (CRFP) is expanding its efforts to fight food insecurity in the Concord area. The organization has established two new community partnerships, and has distributed thousands of dollars in supplemental food support during the first months of 2026.
The Concord based nonprofit announced this week that it has added Concord Hospital Payson Center for Cancer Care and Overcomers Refugee Services of New Hampshire to its Year Round Distribution Project. This program provides free food support to local agencies serving individuals and families facing food insecurity.
According to CRFP, the organization distributed 8.5 tons of food valued at more than $28,000 during the first quarter of 2026 alone. The food was shared among 24 local community service agencies throughout the greater Concord region.
The expansion comes as food insecurity continues to impact households across New Hampshire, particularly among vulnerable populations dealing with medical challenges, rising living costs, and the difficulties of resettlement.
Supporting Cancer Patients During Treatment
One of the new partnerships focuses on supporting cancer patients undergoing treatment at Concord Hospital Payson Center for Cancer Care.
The center, which is launching its own food pantry, says the partnership with CRFP will help provide nutritional support for patients who may be struggling financially while receiving care.
“Nutrition is a critical component in supporting cancer patients throughout their treatment journey,” said Tamara Wrenn, Director of the Concord Hospital Payson Center for Cancer Care.
“Through our partnership with the Capital Region Food Program, we hope to support many of our patients who are actively undergoing treatment and struggling to make ends meet amid the rising cost of food on a limited income.”
Hospital officials say access to healthy food can play an important role in helping patients maintain strength and overall wellbeing during treatment.
Expanding Help for Refugees and Immigrants
CRFP is also expanding its partnership with Overcomers Refugee Services of New Hampshire, an organization that assists refugees and immigrants in the Concord area through education, resources, and support services.
The two organizations have previously worked together through CRFP’s annual Holiday Project. Under the expanded partnership, Overcomers Refugee Services will now receive ongoing food assistance through the Year Round Distribution Project to help maintain its food pantry year round.
“CRFP has valued our long term partnership with Overcomers Refugee Services,” said Jennifer Carleton, Chair of the CRFP Board of Trustees.
“We are proud to support their efforts to help New Americans establish stable, healthy lives in our community.”
A Growing Community Effort
Founded in 1974, the Capital Region Food Program works with local agencies, volunteers, and donors to reduce hunger across the greater Concord area.
The nonprofit says it distributes the equivalent of more than 110 tons of food each year through its two major initiatives: the Year Round Distribution Project and its annual Holiday Project.
CRFP leaders say partnerships with local service organizations remain central to ensuring food reaches people who need it most.
More information about the Capital Region Food Program and ways to support its work can be found at capitalregionfoodprogram.org.
