Print
The League is thrilled to announce the return of a special initiative in support of Maine Credit Unions’ Campaign for Ending Hunger—the 6th annual $100,000 Ending Hunger Challenge! Coming this October, coinciding with International Credit Union Day and CU Kind Day, credit unions across the state will tackle one significant challenge: collectively raise $100,000 in just one month.
While it sounds like a big feat, Maine’s credit unions far exceeded this challenge last year, fundraising a record-breaking $154,000 for hungry neighbors in need. In this special 35th anniversary year of the Campaign for Ending Hunger, we know our credit unions can once again rise to the task at hand—all to help uplift the tireless hunger relief efforts of food banks, pantries, and programs around the state.
As federal funding cuts continue to drastically impact the ability of many hunger relief organizations to meet the ongoing demand for healthy and nutritious food, monetary support is critical to furthering the reach of these efforts. Together, fueled by the “People Helping People” spirit, we can collaborate for the good of all Mainers.
How You Can Make a Difference:
We invite you to support this important fundraising effort by donating to the Campaign and/or coordinating a fundraiser at your credit union. As we have done in years past, 25% percent of funds raised online during the Challenge will benefit Good Shepherd Food Bank.
Funds raised that are not generated online will count toward that credit union’s 2025 Ending Hunger totals—money that credit unions can distribute back in their communities. Online funds include donations generated from the Campaign’s website and from donations made through a credit union’s unique Campaign for Ending Hunger fundraising URL.
All contributors to the Challenge will be recognized and any business—including credit unions—that contributes more than $250 will have their company logo featured on the Campaign for Ending Hunger’s website.
This October, as we celebrate International Credit Union Day and CU Kind Day, we have an opportunity to unite and raise awareness to end hunger in Maine.
- CU Kind Day | October 13: Offers a chance to foster generosity, goodwill, and well-being for those we serve.
- International Credit Union Day | October 16: Showcases our industry’s collective efforts to address food insecurity in Maine.
We hope your credit union will join us and use this as an opportunity to boost your credit union’s fundraising for the Campaign.
Accept Our Challenge:
Pledge your donation (now or anytime during the month of October) and add your name to our 2025 Challenge Contributors page. Donation checks can be made out to the Campaign and mailed to the League or made online. Contributions by your credit union to the Challenge will be added to your 2025 Ending Hunger fundraising totals.
If you already are planning an event in October, please let us know. Funds raised from these activities will count toward your credit union’s Challenge contributions and will be noted on our Contributors page.
Additional Collateral:
The League has created a variety of collateral materials to help your credit union engage your members and volunteers in our Challenge efforts. Visit the League’s website for logos, social media graphics, print-offs, and more!
Questions:
If you have any questions or would like to brainstorm ideas to participate, please contact Lauren Simonds, the League’s Director of Communications & Social Impact, at lsimonds@mainecul.org.