By Kathy McCarty
Staff Writer
PRESQUE ISLE – A local store celebrated its anniversary in the Aroostook Centre Mall by presenting a Presque Isle non-profit organization with a check for $500.
Recognized as a leading national retail store for savvy, fashion-conscious customers, maurices’ customers selected Homeless Services of Aroostook as the beneficiary of a donation in conjunction with the store’s anniversary celebration.
“We believe in giving back to the communities we are a part of and are thrilled to announce Homeless Services of Aroostook will receive the donation,” stated Hillary Johnston, store manager. “Customers determined the charity by stopping in our store and voted between May 11 and 27.”
For Johnston, it was a pleasure seeing how customers responded.
“It was exciting to see the response from the community and the number of individuals who came out to submit their charity of choice. The organization that received the most nominations was Homeless Services of Aroostook, which provides a valuable service to our community. We are happy to offer this additional support to their effort,” said Johnston.
The store, which features clothing for both men and women, saw a wide variety of customers taking the time to vote. In mid-June, the mall store added a plus-size section, adding to the fashion possibilities for local shoppers.
“Our associates love to help customers put outfits together, whether you need something for work, hanging out or for that perfect gift. Our customers are the best part of our job and we look forward to seeing them every day,” said Johnston. “I’d like to thank all our customers who took the time to take part in this event.”
Susan Mitchell, executive director of the shelter, also wanted to thank those responsible for such a generous donation.
“We’re thankful to the community for their continued support. The money will be used toward expenses at the shelter. We’re grateful to still be open. Appropriations to the shelter have increased and we’re holding our own,” said Mitchell.
Mitchell said keeping the doors open at the shelter is a continuing struggle, with the rising cost of heating fuel, electricity and other expenses. The shelter plans to continue to hold fund-raisers to help come up with the money needed to continue to offer services to those in need throughout Aroostook County.
“We’ll be raising funds at the craft fair in Houlton in August. We’ll also be taking part in the Potato Blossom Festival in Fort Fairfield. We’re trying to come up with a strategy – being out and about will be our focus in upcoming months,” said Mitchell.
The shelter will be able to replace some appliances in its transitional housing units thanks to the Presque Isle Rotary Club. Mitchell said she’s also working on a couple grant applications.
“We received $3,000 from proceeds of the annual Rotary Auction that will be used to replace stoves and refrigerators in our transitional housing units. We’ve applied for a Maine State Housing Authority grant for about $22,000 and a Maine Community Foundation grant as well,” said Mitchell. “If we put out as many grants as possible, we’re bound to get something.”
In the meantime, it’s efforts like that of maurices that keep the doors open for the local non-profit agency.
“It’s wonderful having such community support that will, in turn, be used to help those less fortunate individuals get back on their feet so they can eventually become valuable members of the community. All the hard work is worth it when you see someone get back on their feet,” said Mitchell. “Without the public’s help, it’s difficult. That’s why donations like this one mean so much to us.”
