Church collects funds for flood victims

    “Once again, I am overwhelmed, but not surprised at the generosity of the Catholic community in Maine.”     This was the reaction of Bishop Richard Malone when the proceeds were tallied of the special collection for flood victims of Aroostook County. In response to the bishop’s request for aid, a total of $152,690 was raised from parishes across the state. St. John Valley parishes that were impacted by the flood were exempt from this special collection.
    The money will be distributed by Catholic Charities Maine (CCM) to individuals and families facing hardships as a result of the April flood. CCM, in working with other community partners, will assess requirements for individuals with short term and long term needs. This money has been and over the next several weeks could be used for items such as food, clothing and furniture or to ease the financial struggles as a result of opening your home to an individual(s) displaced by the flood. The funding can also be used for household items as people relocate to temporary housing, according to church officials.
    Temporary housing is being funded by the Federal Emergency Management Agency and may cover a period of up to 18 months. The church collection will also be used in the long-term recovery to help fund unmet needs that remain after insurance and FEMA assistance have been exhausted. CCM will publicly report a breakdown of how the money is being spent, church officials said.
    The church and Catholic Charities Maine are cooperating with FEMA and the Small Business Administration to make sure parishioners and others are aware of federal assistance including grants for temporary housing costs, home repairs and personal property not covered by insurance. Low-cost loans are available for residents and small businesses. Those with questions or needs may contact FEMA, which has space at the Fort Kent Town Office through Friday, June 20, by calling 834-3090 or call toll-free 1-800-621-FEMA (3362).