Arundel House of Pizza is more than just a pizza parlor. Known for its pies and connection to the community, the restaurant consistently serves up a slice of kindness through fundraisers and food drives.

Last month, Arundel House of Pizza owner Craig Allaire was honored for his work in the community with the Kennebunk Chamber of Commerce President’s Award. The award recognizes an organization or individual that exemplifies community service.

Sen. Henry Ingwersen, D-Arundel, presented Allaire with the award in the Maine Senate chamber in Augusta.

“Since their founding only three years ago, Craig Allaire, his family, and staff have been busy giving back to our community,” Ingwersen said. “Arundel House of Pizza has shown time and again that they are more than a pizzeria — they are a community partner.”

Arundel House of Pizza was founded by Allaire and his family in 2023, and quickly became an important player in the Arundel, Kennebunk, and Kennebunkport communities.

Each month, the restaurant holds a fundraiser for local charities, and runs a food drive for the Kennebunk pantry.

It’s all about being a “great neighbor,” Allaire said.

“It really can be said that these three towns and more are really what community encompasses,” he said. “Sure people have their own opinions or differences, but when it matters most they set it all aside for each other.”

In 2024 alone, Arundel House of Pizza donated $20,000 to the community through food drives and local charities.

But the pizzeria doesn’t only focus on community organizations. If a community member or family is in need, they quickly jump into action.

Last week, a local family posted on social media about needing help with medical bills for their young child. Immediately, Arundel House of Pizza put together a fundraising event.

In less than a week, they had raised over $600 for the family.

“We wouldn’t be here without the community,” Allaire said. “It makes sense for us to give back.”

As he presented the President’s Award to the Allaire family last month, Ingwersen noted their exemplary generosity and importance in the community.

“Their limitless generosity is a model for every organization and has an immense impact on our community and the state of Maine,” Ingwersen said.

Allaire said he and his family are grateful for the award, and they plan to continue giving back to the community.

“We are overwhelmed with all the support and love that we receive from the amazing community around us,” Allaire said. “It is truly nothing that we had expected or experienced before.”