Local businesses donate to community group’s summer programs

Neighbors Helping Neighbors of Franklin County (NHNFC or NHN), a community-based group of individuals volunteering their time and talents to better the lives of Franklin County citizens, would like to thank three area businesses for their generous support of a youth summer camp initiative.

Donations from Franklin Savings Bank, Hammond Lumber and Shiretown Insurance in combination with funds raised at NHNFC sponsored events were instrumental in sending three area youths to summer programs that otherwise may have been out of their reach due to financial constraints. Many of these programs have minimal fees while others are considerably more expensive. The goal of Neighbors Helping Neighbors was to sponsor youths by providing the opportunity for a positive experience at a camp or activity of their choice.

Liz Richards, secretary for Neighbors Helping Neighbors said: "When children participate in activities they love and that offer new experiences and rewarding discoveries; it builds self- esteem and strengthens core values. Armed with these tools they will be less apt to fall between the cracks ."

“Or have their talents or abilities overlooked because of their socioeconomic situation,“ added Ivan Gould, Chairman of NHN, "Let’s help fuel the youthful desire they naturally possess to learn and improve."

NHN provided anonymous financial aid for three youths to attend athletic camps. These young people were aware that they would receive a helping hand if they put in the effort to raise a portion of the cost. “This was our first attempt and certainly not our last with a program of this sort and we are very pleased with the results,” said David Keith, “NHN is not limiting this program to Sports camps; Art, Music, Band and Recreational Camp - whatever. NHN is willing to look at all requests and hopes to assist as many as funding will allow.”

To get this program off the ground NHN reached out to three area businesses and were absolutely floored by their generosity. Typically, NHN raises funds through community activities like the extremely successful Scavenger Hunt/Barn Dance and The Bus Ride to Rangeley in 2011 and the Amazing Race in 2012. More activities are in the works.

Neighbors Helping Neighbors has recently affiliated with Western Maine Community Action. Anyone wishing to make a charitable contribution to NHN may do so by making a check payable to Western Maine Community Action (WMCA) , noting "NHN" in the memo line. Checks should be sent to Neighbors Helping Neighbors, 280 High Street, Farmington, ME 04938. A letter acknowledging your tax deductible donation will be sent to you for your records. For more information regarding NHN; check us out on Facebook at Neighbors Helping Neighbors – Franklin County, ME .

Any questions or concerns regarding this press release can be directed to Liz Richard 578-0199, Ivan Gould 491-5074 or David Keith 491-6547.