Chicken stew fundraiser benefits older adults, caregivers

8 months ago

PRESQUE ISLE, Maine – Leaders and volunteers of Aroostook RSVP are serving up a hot meal to kick off  the new year in hopes of raising money and awareness for their program and the Foundation for the  Aroostook Agency on Aging.

“Hot & Hearty Chicken Stew To Go“ is a drive-up fundraiser going on at the Agency’s main office at 260 Main Street on Tuesday, January 14 from 4-6 p.m. Sales of the $10 meals will benefit the longstanding  programs and services that serve their communities and neighbors in a meaningful way. Organizers  believe the opportunity to purchase a warm meal to support a worthy cause is also a reason for people  to get to know more about programs offered by the Agency. 

“We are encouraging everyone to let us cook supper for them on this weeknight. Please stop by and get  warmed up with a delicious to-go Chicken Stew meal with bread, beverage, and dessert for only $10,” said Halina Herzog, manager of volunteer services at the agency. 

Helping with last year’s successful drive-up chicken strew fundraiser at the Aroostook Agency on Aging in Presque Isle were Aroostook RSVP staff and volunteers as well as Agency employee including, from left, Sherry Beaulieu, Halina Herzog, Katina Ouellette, Lori Ann Cyr, Vi Belanger and Heidi Thompson O’Clair. (Courtesy of Aroostook Agency on Aging)

The mission of Aroostook RSVP, she added, is vital to northern Maine, “Those who purchase a meal will  be helping us to help our community. Like the Agency, Aroostook RSVP aims to make life better for older  adults and those who are disabled by connecting caring people with their neighbors who are in a moment  of need.” 

So far this year, Aroostook RSVP volunteers have donated over 22,000 hours at soup kitchens, food  pantries and other stations located in towns from Benedicta to Madawaska. 

Herzog said Aroostook RSVP works closely with a network of non-profits including the United Way of  Aroostook in a variety of ways including food security, help with light housework and caring  companionship. “It’s a very rewarding feeling to know that these efforts are making a real difference in  The County. Our volunteers are caring people who know that someday they themselves or their own  family might need a little help. They are paying it forward,” she added. 

Several anonymous businesses have paid all up-front expenses for the fundraiser. In addition, Agency staff and volunteers give their time to plan and put on the event.


In case of inclement weather, the event will be moved to Wednesday, January 15, also from 4-6 p.m. For more information about the Aroostook RSVP including how to become a volunteer, please call the  Agency on Aging at 207-764-3396 or 1-800-439-1789 or visit the Agency website at  www.aroostookaging.org.