Food-4-U trying to do more in tough economic times

HERMON — Food-4-U, a food distribution ministry supported by people of many faiths, is trying to do more in these tough economic times. It now has a warehouse in Hermon, and has scheduled a fund-raising auction for 1 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 11, at Ammo Industrial Park on Odlin Road, Bangor.

The day will also include a concert featuring Seeker, Ada Polley, C.C. Reynolds, Extended Hands, Bunny and Willie Furge, bagpipers Donna Nicholson and Jason Cone, and Hal Furrow. Fireworks will begin at 9 p.m. after a bagpipe rendition of “Amazing Grace.”

All proceeds will help feed people in the Greater Bangor area.

The ministry was begun about 10 years ago, according to Bessie Merrill. The philosophy is that food needs to be provided to people who are not able to attend soup kitchens or visit food pantries.

Money is needed to purchase a van to use in the food distribution. The vehicle now being used is not going to last long, Merrill said.

Food-4-U is a non-profit organization, and no salaries are paid. All funds benefit the distribution of food that is given by local food outlets. The sponsoring organization is Samaritan Inc., P.O. Box 2006, Bangor 04402-2006. Donations are tax-deductible.

The auction will include items such as airline tickets to anywhere in the United States, heating oil, gift certificates, a color television, a car, and autographed pictures and sports magazines signed by celebrities including Nolan Ryan, Chris Everett, Mickey Rooney and Ted Williams. Also sending items were former presidents Ronald Reagan and George Bush.

Anah Temple clowns and Brewer Kartland carts will also be featured.

Some 6,000 pounds of food is distributed weekly by Food-4-U to 600 families. Towns served are: Charleston, Etna, Kenduskeag, Orono, East Corinth, Bangor, Brewer, Orrington, Old Town, Veazie, Hermon, Glenburn, Plymouth, Levant, Bradford, Exeter, Dixmont, Hudson, Corinna, Carmel and Stetson.