Maine credit unions launch challenge to fight hunger – Piscataquis Observer

WESTBROOK – Maine credit unions are deeply committed to combating food insecurity in their home state. In addition to raising thousands of dollars each year to fight hunger, credit unions also work hard to raise awareness about food insecurity in the communities they serve. As part of their longstanding efforts, Maine credit unions are proud to announce the launch of their fifth annual $100,000 Ending Hunger Challenge.

Throughout the month of October, Maine Credit Unions' Campaign to End Hunger will work to raise $100,000 to provide access to nutritious meals for those in need. Proceeds from the month-long fundraiser will benefit the Good Shepherd Food Bank, local food banks, meal sites and a new pilot program with Special Olympics Maine that helps athletes experiencing food insecurity.

“It's exciting to take on a challenge, and fighting hunger is a critical effort that we simply cannot ignore,” said Elise Baldacci, president of the Maine Credit Union League. “Every community in our state is affected by food insecurity – no city is immune to this systemic problem. That’s why it’s important for Mainers to come together in this way to help break down the barriers that prevent people from accessing the nutritious foods they need to live healthy lives.”

The challenge encourages financial institutions, businesses and individuals to make a secure online donation to Maine Credit Unions' End Hunger Campaign. Some credit unions also accept donations at their branches. A portion of the donations generated online (25 percent) goes directly to the Good Shepherd Food Bank.

“The challenge is truly a testament to our credit union network’s ongoing commitment to ensuring that no Mainer goes to bed hungry,” said Jen Burke, assistant vice president of public relations and communications for the Maine Credit Union League. “In previous years, we held our $100,000 challenge in June, but postponed it to October to coincide with the celebration of International Credit Union Day on October 17th. This special day commemorates the work credit unions do year-round to promote their communities and improve the financial lives of their members. Hosting the Challenge in the fall is a great way to honor the contributions of this international celebration while helping our neighbors in need.”

You do not have to be a member of a credit union in Maine to donate to the $100,000 Ending Hunger Challenge. All donations made to support these efforts through the Maine Credit Unions Campaign to End Hunger are tax deductible. Both business and individual contributors will be listed on the campaign website (with permission).

“We see firsthand how hunger impacts families and communities across Maine, and supporting Maine’s credit unions through the $100,000 Ending Hunger Challenge is making a meaningful difference,” said Good Shepherd President Heather Paquette Food Bank of Maine. “By coming together through initiatives like this, the Food Bank, along with our 600 partner agencies, can provide more nutritious and culturally relevant meals and work toward a future where no Mainer has to worry about where their next meal is coming from.” We are deeply grateful for the Maine Credit Unions’ Campaign to End Hunger’s unwavering commitment to ending hunger in our state.”

Since 1990, Maine Credit Unions' Campaign to End Hunger has raised over $13.5 million, including over $1,200,000 in food and cash donations in 2023.

The Maine Credit Union League is a nonprofit, professional trade association supporting 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 industry association for credit unions in Maine, the League provides advocacy, education and other resources to help credit unions meet the needs of their members. For more information, visit www.mainecul.org.