This as-told-to essay is based on a conversation with bakery owner Rebecca Coffin. It has been edited for length and clarity.
Rebecca Coffin has dedicated her life to the art of feeding people. From her early days bussing tables to traveling across the United States, exploring various restaurant roles, Coffin has honed her culinary skills and passion for the food industry. Eventually, she returned to Maine, where she not only started a family but also a business that impacts her local community.
A Family Venture in Baking
When Coffin’s son faced school-related challenges, including anxiety, she decided to homeschool him, using baking as a practical method to teach subjects like fractions and money management. Their joint efforts led them to farmers’ markets, eventually culminating in the establishment of Hailey’s Kitchen in Windham in 2017.
The bakery and café offer a diverse range of products, from baked goods like pies, birthday cakes, and wedding cakes to an assortment of meals, including sandwiches, soups, avocado toast, bagels, smoothies, and frappes.
Responding to SNAP Benefit Cuts
Amidst daily updates on Hailey’s Kitchen’s Facebook page, Coffin encountered alarming news from a local CBS affiliate about the impending halt of SNAP benefits due to a government shutdown. This prompted her to consider the immediate impact on her community, where food banks are already under pressure.
“I have a restaurant, I cook, and I feed people, so that’s what we’re going to do,” Coffin decided. She announced that anyone in need could come to Hailey’s for a meal, a message that quickly spread across multiple Facebook groups, reaching many within 24 hours.
Community Support and Generosity
While initially anxious about the potential demand, Coffin found overwhelming support pouring in from all directions. Her phone buzzed non-stop with offers of assistance, and generous donations soon followed, easing any financial concerns. Contributions came from far and wide, including a woman from Pennsylvania and another from Massachusetts who personally delivered funds.
Local residents, including those placing orders or purchasing their daily meals, also chipped in, ensuring that Coffin wouldn’t have to bear the financial burden alone. “The community has rallied around us to help support our neighbors,” she expressed with gratitude.
Making a Difference One Meal at a Time
At Hailey’s Kitchen, a simple system is in place: sticky notes that read “free meal” or “free coffee” are available for anyone in need. Coffin is committed to providing for those whose SNAP benefits are delayed or who lack access to food. She recently assisted a woman living in a hotel with her two children, supplying her with groceries to help bridge the gap until she moves into a new apartment.
“Feeding people is just humanity,” Coffin emphasizes, underscoring her dedication to ensuring no one in her community goes hungry. Her efforts are a testament to the power of community and compassion in times of need.
