Express loan program

BANGOR – The Maine Centers for Women, Work and Community will hold a workshop to explain the U.S. Small Business Administration’s Community Express loan program 9-11 a.m. Monday, April 28, at Eastern Maine Development Corp., 40 Harlow St.

These loans are geared to early-stage small businesses that have not been able to establish a track record with their local lender. Superior Financial Group, the lending partner in the workshop, is a federally licensed SBA lender which provides loans of up to $25,000 under this program.

Under the Community Express loan program, the business owner receives free technical assistance during the life of the loan from SCORE counselors to America’s Small Business. Loan applications will be completed during the seminar.

Loan approvals are usually obtained within 72 hours.

Participants should bring a business account checkbook, a valid driver’s license and business plan. The applicant and anyone who owns 20 percent or more of the business will guarantee the loan.

For information, call Jane Searles at 262-7843.

Spring A Pet fundraiser

BANGOR – PETCO Foundation is launching its annual Spring A Pet fundraiser to benefit animal welfare groups in hopes of a new beginning for the millions of companion animals they shelter.

Through May 4, PETCO stores will collect donations on behalf of local animal shelters and rescue groups.

The PETCO Foundation has partnered with the makers of Pedigree dog food, who will support the Spring A Pet campaign by donating $1 for each purchase of Pedigree products at PETCO stores or at PETCO.com of $10 or more.

Some 5 to 7 million companion animals enter shelters nationwide every year with 3 to 4 million euthanized due to a lack of space or resources, according to estimates by the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals. Only one in 10 animals received by shelters has been neutered.

PETCO customers can make a difference by purchasing Spring A Pet donation cards for a $5, $10 or $20 donation at PETCO stores or by donating to the campaign online. Customers donating $20 will receive a commemorative photo album. Last year, the campaign raised nearly $1.7 million, with all donations staying locally.

To learn more about the PETCO Foundation, visit www.petco.com.

Food bank donation

BANGOR – The Bangor Hydro Federal Credit Union is a strong supporter of Maine’s Credit Unions’ Campaign for Ending Hunger and recently gave a generous donation to Good Shepherd Food-Bank.

Carol McLaughlin, assistant manager for the Credit Union, presented a $1,000 check to Michel Kreder, marketing manager for the food bank. Good Shepherd Food-Bank will turn the $1,000 gift into more than 5,000 meals for families in the Bangor region.