WESTBROOK, Maine — The "Campaign for Ending Hunger," sponsored annually by the Maine Credit Union League, hit a record $366,000 in 2007 and drew the praise of the state's first lady, Karen Baldacci at ceremonies last week.
In citing the industry's attention to a critical problem in the state, Mrs. Baldacci, lauded CUs for "continuing to answer a call to action for a cause that affects thousands of Maine families."
At 13%, the state has one of the highest hunger ratios, compared to 9-10% in the rest of the nation.
Recommended For You
On hand for the ceremonies at the league's offices were 50 CU representatives who will help distribute to 300 food banks and pantries in the state. The $366,000 in contributions is a 15% jump from that raised in 2006.
The Jan. 23 event was called, the "January Thaw to End Hunger Celebration," with individual CUs recognized for their fundraising efforts.
The league also said that the campaign helped cement closer links to food pantries across the state and "because of the incredible success this year, all credit unions that participated will receive at least 92% of the funds" returned to them to distribute to hunger organizations in local communities.
The remainder will be earmarked for various statewide initiatives including the Food Mobile, Red Cross Emergency Relief Fund, and other causes. Jon Paradise, governmental and public affairs manager for the league noted, "the funds are sorely needed as food pantries are seeing a significant increase in requests."
© 2025 ALM Global, LLC, All Rights Reserved. Request academic re-use from www.copyright.com. All other uses, submit a request to [email protected]. For more information visit Asset & Logo Licensing.
