Recent auction helps keep local homeless shelter doors open

    PRESQUE ISLE, Maine – An auction held recently at the Aroostook Centre Mall raised enough money to keep the local homeless shelter open at least through June of this year.
    “The auction raised around $3,000. That helps us keep the facility open through the end of June,” said Susan Mitchell, executive director of Homeless Services of Aroostook.
While the funds will allow the shelter to offer services to those in need through early summer, Mitchell said it’s a never-ending task to raise money to maintain services for those who’ve been hit by hard times – hard times that have also affected the shelter’s budget.
“Right now we have several families housed at the shelter. Increased fuel and utility costs have made it difficult for so many, especially families,” said Mitchell.
Contrary to what some may believe, many people using the shelter actually have or get jobs but are unable to find adequate, affordable housing that they can afford on their income.
“There is a lack of affordable housing. But the same things that prevent our clients from getting a place of their own affect us at the shelter,” said Mitchell, referring to the jump in the cost of electricity and fuel over the last couple years.
Mitchell said fund-raiser efforts are ongoing, with plans in the works for a few projects later this year.
“We’re considering doing the dollar donation fund-raiser again. We’d also like to do something to involve students in local schools but that wouldn’t take place until after school begins in the fall,” said Mitchell.
Though warmer weather is fast approaching, the shelter’s need for support is never-ending.
“It’s getting warmer but we still have expenses, as long as there are homeless clients to serve,” said Mitchell.
If anyone would like to make a donation, call 764-5114. Donations can also be sent to: Homeless Services of Aroostook,  Inc., PO Box 1753, Presque Isle, ME 04769.