During this difficult time when community support has become crucial due to ongoing economic challenges, Maine State Credit Union has announced that it donated over $250,000 to local animal shelters, food banks, and community-based organizations in 2023. The money was raised through a combination of employee and member-based programs, including its new Drive for Good program and its annual Ending Hunger in Maine campaign.

"Maine State Credit Union has a long-standing tradition of supporting local organizations through its annual Ending Hunger in Maine campaign," said Stephen Wallace, the President, and CEO of Maine State Credit Union. He further added that in 2023, the credit union introduced a new program called Drive for Good, in which they donate $25 to a local organization for every direct vehicle loan. The employees of Maine State CU are always looking for ways to contribute to the betterment of the local communities, both through volunteering and donations.

The Maine State Credit Union's annual Ending Hunger Campaign had a record-breaking year in 2023, raising over $105,000. The funds will be distributed to local food pantries and organizations that participate in the campaign at its annual Ending Hunger breakfast on April 1, 2024, at the Senator in Augusta. The main fundraising event of the campaign is the Feed ME 5k, which is a walk along the rail trail in Augusta, held on the last Saturday of April. This event provides an opportunity for smaller hunger groups that lack the resources to run annual capital campaigns to seek donations for their organization. This year, the event will take place on April 27 starting at 9 am.

Organizations that participate in the Feed ME 5k, Walk to End Hunger event receive funds based on the amount they raise. These funds are then used by local food banks and pantries to help community members who are struggling with food insecurity. The funds are used to provide local access to food, host meals, and support local backpack programs as well as Meals-on-Wheels.

Maine State Credit Union's Ending Hunger Campaign, led by Stacey Dow, uses various means to raise funds, including cash calendar sales, bake sales, and jeans days. Along with the Walk to End Hunger, the credit union plans to host other fundraising events for smaller hunger organizations across the Mid-coast and Cumberland County as the campaign grows.

In 2023, the Maine State Credit Union introduced the Drive for Good Program.  This was designed to provide support to other organizations in local markets.  This program raised over $10,000 in its first year and gives members the ability to select a local organization close to where they live.  Charities for this program focus on animals, youth services as well as hunger.

Maine State Credit Union also continued to support the Maine Community College System and Maine Maritime Academy with donations to the Normand Dubreuil Scholarship Fund.  This fund is managed by the community college system and Maine Maritime.  It provides funds to Mainers seeking to continue their education and is not need-based.

"I am proud to lead an organization where employees are always thinking of ways to give back and help local communities thrive," stated Wallace. "I'm certain that these are just the beginning of many more to come."