To the editor:
In today’s world of good intentions often those who receive assistance become dependent on the provider. Many helpful programs do fill the voids that our friends and neighbors experience when trying to provide life’s basic needs for themselves and families but they also can create an environment in which one may become too dependent on the provisions offered and this dependency often prevents one from putting their best foot forward to become self-sustaining.
With these thoughts in mind I am reminded of my younger years growing up in a home that lived on a low-income and had to rely on the strength of a single mom. Although our household income was low it was well managed and all the money needed to provide for my family was earned within and there was no reliance on assistance programs. And fortunately there was a local farmer who saw that we were in need and came to our aid.
When I say aid immediately some may think a handout. But this was not to be the case with the farmer friend. Although this farmer helped many in many ways he was not about to give me or my family a handout and I am glad he chose not to. During my teenage years he offered me employment and I can say he was committed to my family’s success. If I may I’ll share his quote that gave me the sense he was committed to helping others. His words to me were, “Dale you are not quite a man yet but you and your family are in need, if you will work for me, apply as much effort to your task as my other men do, I will pay you the same hourly wage they receive.” This man was serious about lending a hand up to others in need. Weather it was after school, on a weekend, or during vacations he or one of his men would pick me up, take me to work, and see that I got home safely until I was able to provide my own transportation. Our employer/friend relationship lasted throughout the remainder of his life and continues to have a major impact on decisions I make today.
Friends of Aroostook is applying this same hand-up philosophy to all our programs. We are providing emergency winter firewood and fresh vegetables to those in need. But if we are to help others we need others to help themselves and their neighbors. Currently we have seven men whose families received firewood last year committed to processing tree-length wood into firewood, that will be delivered to those in need this coming winter.
This spring Friends of Aroostook planted multiple types of vegetables that grow well in northern Maine. And we will maintain them until they mature. As the vegetables mature throughout the summer and fall months, we need harvesters to come and hand pick the produce for food pantries and other qualified organizations who can distribute to those in need. All volunteer help is greatly appreciated but in keeping with our mission of “connecting local resources with local needs‚” it is important that distributing organizations harvest for their needs. If one is receiving benefit from a food pantry or a helpful organization they may very well be the organization’s most valuable resource. All can give back to others if they simply look for the opportunity.
In closing out this letter it is important to acknowledge the farmer who gave a hand-up to me and my family. Ken Elliott not only helped my family but he also became an important mentor in my life.
All are invited to join us in harvesting fresh vegetables, experience the joy of giving to others, and help mentor the next generation in the practice of giving. Also we encourage all volunteers to take time to pick fresh vegetables for their personal needs.
If you or your organization is in need of fresh vegetable and are willing to harvest them please e-mail friendsofaroostook@yahoo.com or call Dale at 694-8131 for more information.
Dale Flewelling, Friends of Aroostook
