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Eligibility
The TEO Food Distribution program supports individuals and families in need โ for one month or many. There are no complicated requirements, just a few simple steps.
TEO serves residents of Townsend, Ashby, and Pepperell. Residents of Groton and Lunenburg may participate by referral from schools, churches, or healthcare providers.
To receive food you must first become a TEO member. It's simple โ just email info@teo-ma.org to sign up. Once you're a member, register each month before the deadline to reserve your spot.
What to Expect
Shopping at TEO is designed to feel welcoming and dignified โ like visiting a real market, not a food bank.
Distribution takes place the Saturday following the third Thursday of each month. Registration opens on the preceding Friday and closes Sunday at 5pm.
Members shop from shelves of non-perishable food, refrigerators, and freezers. TEO also has a farmers market-style area for fresh fruits and vegetables.
You must shop during your assigned timeslot. No one will be admitted before 8:30 AM. Members are let in alphabetical order โ no need to arrive early.
If a member cannot attend, a pre-packed box can be provided. A friend or family member may shop on your behalf if you cannot make it.
You cannot shop for another person while shopping for yourself โ including family members who are also TEO members. One visit per household per session.
It is mandatory to register each month โ even if you've been a member for years. This helps TEO plan accurately for shopper volume and food allocation.
Bag Allowances
Please bring your own recyclable grocery store-size bags (not department store size) and your TEO-issued cooler bag if you have one. If you don't have a TEO cooler bag, a folding cooler (15ร13ร10 or similar) is welcome.
1โ2 people
3โ4 people
5 or more
โ ๏ธ Note: Bag counts are for dry goods and non-perishables only. They do not include your TEO-issued freezer bag or any bags provided for fruits, vegetables, or dairy.
Shopping Schedule
You must shop during your assigned timeslot based on your household size and last name. No one will be admitted before 8:30 AM โ members are let in alphabetically, so there is no need to arrive early.
Not yet a member?
Email info@teo-ma.org to become a TEO member. If you need food urgently, please contact the office and we'll help you get started.