BANGOR – State Rep. Mike Dunn of Bangor was the host at a community dinner to raise money and awareness for the Keep ME Warm Fund, a public-private partnership to help those most in need with the rising cost of heating fuel.

The dinner, held recently at the John Graham Senior Center in Veazie, raised $550 and is earmarked to help those in local communities. Dunn recently presented the check to Penquis CAP, a community action agency that administers the program locally.

According to Dunn, he is hoping businesses and other community members will continue to add to the donations to match the original $550.

“I want to thank all the volunteers who prepared and donated food,” Dunn said. “The dinner was a huge success, and it was a great way to help local families with heating assistance. We have a real responsibility to put people first and take care of our neighbors.”

Maine humorist Gary Crocker entertained the crowd while they ate beans and franks donated by Frank’s Bake Shop and W.A. Bean & Sons. To plan the event, Dunn partnered with Penquis CAP, which provided space at its John Graham Senior Center in Veazie.

Gov. John Baldacci established the Keep ME Warm Fund in the wake of Congress’ decision to provide less money for home heating assistance, despite rising oil prices. The governor challenged Maine people with raising $5 million to provide heating assistance through the LIHEAP program.

Those interested in contributing to the fund may contact Dunn at 945-3392.