CARIBOU, Maine — The United Veterans of Maine’s effort to create five shelters for homeless veterans is gaining momentum. In addition to recently signing a property lease on land where Phil’s Florist was once located, the VFW Ladies Auxiliary recently donated $500 to their cause.
Auxiliary President Patricia Edgecomb said the donation was for Make a Difference Day, made as an effort to “do something meaningful for the veterans.”
UVM President John DeVeau says they intend to use the Phil’s Florist property to create a seed farm in which homeless veterans can work, sustain themselves by paying for their rent and food, and also earn money for themselves. Currently, the UVM is speaking to the city of Caribou to ensure that all aspects of the project are legitimate, allowing homeless vets to move in as soon as the cabins are built.
“The seed farm will open up several opportunities for the veterans,” said DeVeau. “We are going to have truck drivers, managers, people to handle internet sales, and a number of jobs that go beyond simply growing the seeds.”
VFW Post 9389 Commander Roger Felix says that in order to make the project a success, he is working with DeVeau to bring local veteran groups together.
“This is a local issue, and those aren’t always recognized on a national level,” Felix said. “We don’t want the funding to stay in southern Maine, and it will send a good message if we are seen working as one relentless team.”
