Maine Credit Unions kick off $100,000 challenge to support hunger relief
WESTBROOK – Maine credit unions are once again asking for the public’s help this October to provide food for neighbors in need through the 7th Annual $100,000 Ending Hunger Challenge.
Throughout the month, Maine Credit Unions’ Campaign for Ending Hunger is working to raise $100,000 to help provide funding for 200,000 healthy meals across the state. Anyone can donate, including individuals and businesses, and you do not need to be a credit union member to participate.
“Maine credit unions always step up when our neighbors need help,” Elise Baldacci, president of the Maine Credit Union League, said. “A few months ago, we contributed $100,000 to Good Shepherd Food Bank through our 48 to Feed the State initiative, and now we’re asking the public to join us in supporting our October fundraiser. Demand for food assistance continues to grow and every donation our campaign receives this month will help put food on the table for more people in need.”
Food insecurity remains a serious concern across Maine. One in five Maine children experience food insecurity; 14.5% of households struggle to consistently put food on the table, and more than 31,000 seniors are at risk of hunger. Maine also has the highest rate of childhood food insecurity in New England. Those challenges are especially significant in a rural state like Maine, where access to food assistance can be more difficult. Washington County, for example, has a food insecurity rate of 18.8% — the highest in New England!
Funds raised in October will support hunger relief efforts across Maine, with 25% of online donations directly benefiting Good Shepherd Food Bank. Remaining funds will support local food pantries, meal programs, schools, and other organizations addressing hunger.
“I’m incredibly proud of the way Maine’s credit unions carry out our People Helping People philosophy through this Campaign,” added Baldacci. “They see the impact of hunger in their communities every day, and that makes this work personal. It’s why credit unions across Maine continue to give so generously to this cause, and why we hope others will feel compelled to join us.”
To support the $100,000 Ending Hunger Challenge through an online donation, visit www.campaignforendinghunger.org. You can also check with your local credit union for opportunities to donate at a branch near you.
The Maine Credit Union League is a nonprofit, professional trade association that exists to serve Maine’s credit unions. Founded in 1938, the League’s mission is to help credit unions succeed and improve the financial lives of their members. As the trade association for Maine’s credit unions, the League provides advocacy, education, and other resources designed to assist credit unions in meeting the needs of their membership. For more information, visit www.mainecul.org.