To the editor:
Throughout 2008, businesses, funders, churches, municipalities, civic groups and individuals have generously given their time, talents and monetary resources to The Sister Mary O’Donnell Shelter and it has allowed us to help many families and individuals, mostly from Aroostook County, who find themselves homeless. Homeless Services of Aroostook, Inc. is most grateful for all the support this community provides, especially since we are seeing record numbers of people needing the services in this current economy. The return on your investment has been substantial and it is greatly appreciated by all those involved.
In the past year, 363 people found shelter here — 100 of whom were children. They stayed for a combined total of 4,899 bednights which is considerably higher than the 2007 total of 3,440 bednights. That means that instead of the historical numbers of 10 to 15 people in the shelter each night, it has increased to 20 to 28 people each night on average. All but 97 people were from right here in “The County”.
Those of you who contributed helped your neighbors, co-workers, friends and family have a place to stay when they needed it most. That is something you can all feel good about and will undoubtedly bless you many times over,
The Sister Mary O’Donnell Shelter will be celebrating its 25th year in operation all throughout 2009! As we look forward to the years ahead, The Board of Directors, Staff, and Shelter guests (past and present) would first like to express our heartfelt gratitude for all the support we have received.
Homeless Services of Aroostook, Inc.
