Maine credit unions are seeking to raise $100,000 this month to help fund 200,000 healthy meals for people in need across the state.
Anyone can donate to the seventh annual Ending Hunger Challenge, including individuals and businesses, and credit union membership is not required.
“Maine credit unions always step up when our neighbors need help,” said Elise Baldacci, president of the Westbrook-based Maine Credit Union League.
The campaign kickoff comes a few months after credit unions donated $100,000 to Good Shepherd Food Bank through another initiative.
“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,” Baldacci noted.
Food insecurity remains a serious concern across Maine, with 14.5% of households struggling to consistently put food on the table. Maine also has New England’s highest rate of childhood food insecurity.
Funds raised in October will support hunger-relief efforts across Maine, with 25% of online donations directly benefiting Good Shepherd Food Bank. The remaining funds will support local food pantries, meal programs, schools and other organizations.
“I’m incredibly proud of the way Maine’s credit unions carry out our ‘people helping people’ philosophy through this campaign,” Baldacci said. “They see the impact of hunger in their communities every day, and that makes this work personal.”
How to donate
Those interested in donating can make an online contribution at www.campaignforendinghunger.org or check with any credit union branch.
