About UMACC

The Need

Within the Upper Merion Area School District covering Upper Merion, Bridgeport, Swedeland, Swedesburg, West Conshohocken, and Wayne, there are thousands of neighbors facing food insecurity. These include families with children, working adults, seniors, unemployed or underemployed individuals, and community members living with disabilities.

This challenge is not uncommon in areas with higher living costs, and our community is no exception. Hidden poverty exists here, even though it is not always visible. According to Feeding America’s Map the Meal Gap project, Montgomery County has the lowest percentage in Pennsylvania of food-insecure residents who qualify for state food support programs.

This means that many of our neighbors in need do not qualify for assistance elsewhere. The demand is significant—and unfortunately, it continues to grow.

The Response

The Upper Merion Area Community Cupboard (UMACC), a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, opened in June 2018 as a collaborative effort among school leaders, community organizations, local government, and area clergy. What began as a grassroots response to hidden hunger has grown into a vital resource providing food to hundreds of neighbors every week.

UMACC is guided by a dedicated Board of Directors and sustained through partnerships with schools, businesses, community groups, and generous individuals. Food drives, financial contributions, and volunteer support make it possible to keep our shelves stocked and meet the ever-growing demand.

Our work is largely volunteer-driven, with neighbors of all ages and backgrounds coming together to serve. As our operations have expanded, staff have been added to ensure we can keep pace with the community’s needs.

We believe there is enough abundance and compassion in the Upper Merion Area to ensure that no one goes hungry. By uniting our resources and efforts, we not only fight hunger but also strengthen the bonds of community in Bridgeport, West Conshohocken, Upper Merion, and Wayne.