Our work reflects the values and activism of our our beloved co-founder, Eva Barnfather.

After a pioneering career in education as a high school principal in Western Massachusetts, Eva retired to the Kennebunks in 1995. Four years later (1999), she and a small group of likeminded volunteers began Community Harvest to lend a helping hand to neighbors in need.

For years, Eva led many of our signature programs, included the Harvest Café, a monthly, sit-down meal offering food and fellowship, and our long-running Thanksgiving (Project Pilgrim) and Christmas Eve (Noel Dinner) meals.

She also chaired our annual volunteer appreciation event (The Soiree), and earned a well-deserved reputation as an indefatigable fundraiser, often marching door-to-door to elicit sponsorships and support.

Our programs and reach have expanded since 1999, but our mission remains the same.

Today, Community Harvest is led by a volunteer Board of Directors (including Eva) and our Executive Director, Kerry de Bree. We remain fiercely committed to Eva’s original vision for a more compassionate community.