To the editor:
About one year ago, the members of the Houlton United Methodist Church Men’s Club undertook a “Backpack for Kids” program in our community to help local families that have been affected by the poor economy to help provide much-needed food.
This project now serves 17 families in the ACAP Head Start Program and families whose children attend SAD 70 elementary school.
Initially individuals within the Methodist Church, who wish to remain anonymous, donated food weekly to get the program up and running. As the program expanded, appeals were made to local grocers and civic groups to help with the program.
The response to our appeal was overwhelming.
We would like to publicly thank Andy’s IGA, County Yankee, The Houlton Rotary Club, the x-ray department at Houlton Regional Hospital, The Catholic Women’s Council, the men’s and women’s groups at the United Methodist Church, as well as several individuals.
Hunger is a severe problem, which will undoubtedly become worse until the economy improves. Although this program has been very successful, there are many more families in our area that need help.
We are grateful for the support we have received and we pray that these generous donors and others will be willing to step up to the plate again in the future. Our goal is to expand the number of families we serve.
Those willing to participate in this program are invited to call the Houlton United Methodist Church office at 532-3332 for further details.
Gerald “Moose” Karnes
Hodgdon
