ABA Monthly Member Highlight November 2025: The Alton Community Services
Every month, we sit down with one of our amazing ABA members to get to know them a little better! We ask each member the same questions, providing an opportunity for our members to highlight the important work they do in our communities.
This month’s spotlight is a bit different. The ABA is highlighting an organization whose data was collected prior to the November 1, 2025, nonrenewal of SNAP benefits. With demand steadily rising, we encourage the community to consider donating to support local families in need.
Thanks to the generosity of Alton residents and dedicated volunteers, Alton Community Services (ACS) continues to make a powerful impact. Over the past year, ACS has served 118 families, distributing an average of 5,000 meals’ worth of food each month. In total, 54,910 pounds of food—valued at $104,329—were received through the Food Bank and Fresh Rescue programs.
Requests for help continue to grow, with a 15% increase in families served and a 10% rise in non-food assistance such as transportation and household necessities.
One of the greatest ongoing needs is for personal care items—including shampoo, toothpaste, soap, deodorant, laundry detergent, and feminine hygiene products. Every contribution, whether goods or financial support, helps ACS continue its vital work for our community as they do not receive no government funding and rely on community support.
For more information or to get involved, contact Chris Racine at altoncs32@gmail.com or visit the Alton Community Services website.
— Alton Business Association
Tell us about your business
Alton Community Services, aka the Alton Food Pantry, provides services for the less fortunate families residing in the Town of Alton. Our main purpose is to provide food assistance however, with our strong network, we are able to assist families in need with additional support/assistance.
ACS has a volunteer Board of Directors of which I, Chris Racine, am the Director. We also host Operation Blessings for families in need for Thanksgiving dinner. We also host Mrs. Santa Fund that distributes gifts for children within the Town of Alton.
Tell us about yourself
I have been Director of Alton Community Services for 8 years now. I retired from Profile Bank as a Loan Officer in late 2024, and as a retiree it seems I am busier than when I was working!! I have lived in Alton for 20 years and enjoy our community.
How did your business get started?
The Alton Community Services is 25 years old. It started with 3-5 Alton Residents who were members of our Churches…all committed to assisting the less fortunate families and created “the food pantry”.
What has your relationship with the Alton Business Association done for you or your business?
The ABA continues to be a strong supporter of ACS with financial donations from various Town events that the ABA underwrites. As a former Board Member of the ABA, I certainly appreciate all the time, energy, and commitment it takes to host events….Kudos to all ABA members in supporting their Town.
What do you value most about this community?
Alton is a small community with a big heart… that is why it’s my home!
Why did you want to open your business in this community?
see # 7
What business accomplishment are you most proud of?
The commitment of assisting the families residing in Alton who are less fortunate. Some families need our assistance on a short-term basis while others are in need of our assistance for longer periods of time…either way ACS is there for assistance!!
What does the future hold for you and your business?
We look for continued growth not only in clientele but with assistance at various levels.
Support your community and our community will support you!
How can people who want to learn more about you or your business get in touch with you?
For more information or to learn how you can help, please contact Chris Racine at altoncs32@gmail.com, call 603-833-3482, or visit Alton Community Services’ website. Everyone is welcome to visit us at 11C Village Circle in Alton.