Maine Credit Unions’ Campaign for Ending Hunger Presents Check to The Barbara Bush Children’s Hospital

September 21, 2023 |

Hospital, credit union, and League staff pose for a photo at The Barbara Bush Children’s Hospital.

Maine Credit Unions’ Campaign for Ending Hunger visited The Barbara Bush Children’s Hospital (BBCH) on Thursday to present a check for $14,000 to support the hospital’s efforts to assist food insecure patients and their families. The donation was made possible thanks to contributions made on behalf of the League and the following sixteen credit unions:

  • Atlantic Federal Credit Union Foundation
  • Bangor Federal Credit Union
  • Community Credit Union
  • Connected Credit Union
  • Cumberland County Federal Credit Union
  • Dirigo Federal Credit Union
  • Eastmill Federal Credit Union
  • Evergreen Credit Union
  • KV Federal Credit Union
  • Maine Solutions Federal Credit Union
  • OTIS Federal Credit Union
  • Oxford Federal Credit Union
  • Saco Valley Credit Union
  • Sebasticook Valley Federal Credit Union
  • Trademark Federal Credit Union
  • University Credit Union

“The generosity of Maine credit unions never ceases to amaze me,” shared Cris Wescott, Interim President/CEO of the Maine Credit Union League. “When the hospital approached our League about the meaningful steps it was taking to help those facing food insecurity, we knew it was an effort the Campaign for Ending Hunger could get behind. And when we approached credit unions about making a financial donation to support their important work, so many offered to help. This donation is a testament to our credit union movement’s commitment to end hunger in Maine.”

As part of its routine practices, The BBCH screens all families for food insecurity while they are in the hospital’s care. Those in need are provided with supplemental meals and emergency frozen food bags. Based on current trends, the hospital anticipates doubling its distribution of free meals and food bags within its Emergency Department, In-Patient Unit, and PICU this year alone, demonstrating the high demand for food assistance.

“Hunger affects Maine’s children in opaque ways, including difficulty learning in school, which has enduring implications for success,” said Jen Jewell, MD, pediatrician at The Barbara Bush Children’s Hospital. “The best way to mitigate food insecurity involves communities prioritizing this health concern. The BBCH welcomes and appreciates the donation from Maine’s credit unions, setting the example of how community partners can impact families and protect the future of Maine children.”

Since 1990, the Maine Credit Unions’ Campaign for Ending Hunger has raised over $12.3 million, including over $1,000,000 in food and cash contributions in 2022.