To the editor,
Every year a committee of local leaders from all corners of Aroostook County reviews applications and awards grants from the Maine Community Foundation to help improve the quality of life for people who live here. The foundation’s Aroostook County Fund, established in 1986, has grown to more than $1 million and funded more than $450,000 in grants to help address community issues and challenges.
We’re grateful for the many donors who help this happen — and the people from nonprofits and projects in Aroostook County who in turn work so hard to provide services, enrich our lives and build a better future.
Last year, the Aroostook County Committee awarded 11 grants totaling just over $67,000. The University of Maine at Presque Isle used its grant to purchase a fan system for UMPI’s new 2,400-square-foot Zillman Family Greenhouse. Houlton Community Market’s grant increased access to farmers markets, especially for families and low-income customers. Aroostook Hospice Foundation purchased beds that will expand sleeping accommodations for patients and family members during their stay at the Aroostook House of Comfort.
Applications for 2020 community-building grants are due Feb. 15. If you’d like to learn more about Maine Community Foundation, visit mainecf.org or contact Erica McCrum, our foundation officer in Aroostook, at 207-227-7678 or emccrum@mainecf.org.
Frank McElwain
Chair, Aroostook County Committee
Caribou
