SHARE (Self Help and Resource Exchange) was formed in 1983 in San Diego, California by Deacon Carl Shelton and the Catholic Diocese. Deacon Shelton believed it was possible to implement a self-help approach to meeting the food needs in interested communities. SHARE-DC was launched in April, 1990 by Associated Catholic Charities and the Knights of Malta. SHARE-DC serves communities in Washington D.C., Maryland, and Virginia. The SHARE Food Network distributes high quality, affordable nutritious food as a way to build community and strengthen families. Organized through 320 churches and community groups, participants perform two hours of volunteer service and pay $25 monthly to purchase groceries worth approximately $45.00 – $50.00.

SHARE-DC is an affiliate of World SHARE. One of the fundamental values of World SHARE is that it is considered a basic human right for all people to have adequate access to food, water, shelter, material assistance, human relationships, spiritual expression, physical safety, good health, education, and an environment conducive to their well-being. A second and equally compelling fundamental value embodied by World SHARE is that each individual has a vital contribution to make to the world. Together with 17 SHARE affiliates across the United States and programs in Guatemala and Mexico, SHARE-DC strives to help people make a difference for themselves and their neighbors. If you would like more information please visit SHARES-DC.