MMG donation supports Homeless Services of Aroostook

    PRESQUE ISLE — Homeless Services of Aroostook, Inc., was recently awarded a grant in the amount of $4,000 from Atlantic Residential to begin making much-needed energy upgrades to the Sister Mary O’Donnell Shelter and 16 transitional housing units that help families go from homelessness to housing. Atlantic Residential Resources then announced the offer to match every dollar that is donated toward this project up to an additional $4,000.  
    The Shelter’s heating system needs to be re-zoned so the temperature will be consistent throughout the entire building. Even regulation will save money and, more importantly, keep people comfortable so they can be as motivated and as productive as possible on their journey to self-sufficiency.    
    Transitional housing units still have the old “crank” windows with eroding seals and spaces where air enters from the outside. Many garage doors are in disrepair as well. Eligible families can stay in these units for 24 months while they work or go to school. The second year of occupancy requires the family to cover the cost of electricity in addition to their rent. Energy-efficient windows and garage doors free of holes will save the agency money and cut expenses for many families well into the future.
    After hearing of the matching grant from Atlantic Residential, MMG Insurance Company notified Susan Mitchell, executive director, Homeless Services of Aroostook, of a contribution to the matching grant in the amount of $500.  
    MMG Insurance Company’s 2009-2010 Community Volunteer of the Year, Margo Dyer, recently presented the donation to Susan Mitchell, executive director, of Homeless Services of Aroostook.