Resource fair for G-P workers going on today

OLD TOWN – A resource fair for the more than 450 people left unemployed by the recent closure of the Georgia-Pacific Corp. mill and others affected by the closure will be held from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. today at the former Helen Hunt School at 242 Brunswick St.

Penobscot Community Health Care and its partner, Old Town Family Practice, have joined efforts with the Penobscot County Transition Team to sponsor the free event. More than 40 organizations will be on hand to provide information about a variety of resources, including health care, career opportunities, fuel and utility assistance, financial planning and home winterization.

“The situation with the mill dealt a devastating blow to workers who were displaced and has had a ripple effect on area businesses as well,” according to a press release from PCHC.

The event will begin with a ceremony to kick off the $5.9 million renovation of the former Helen Hunt School as a community medical facility for Old Town Family Practice.

Activities for children, such as a bounce house, face painting, Shriner’s clowns, and tours of a fire engine and ambulance, also will be available. Free prize drawings will be held throughout the day for items donated from local businesses, including meal coupons, winterization kits, gift cards, fishing gear and more.