FREEPORT — As a way to raise awareness and collect donations for those who cannot afford heating fuel or food, three Freeport residents will stand outside for 24 hours on Friday.

From noon on Feb. 5 until noon Saturday, Feb. 6, Freeport  Community Services Program Director Sue Mack,  Patti Bruce and Will Gavin, deacon of the First Parish Church, will set up on the church lawn at 40 Main St. They will be provided with a tent by L.L. Bean, but will not use any heat. Food and hot beverages will be provided by church members.

Representatives from the Freeport Lions/Lioness Club and an employee from Timberland will join in the sixth annual 24 Hour Freeze Out for Food and Fuel. Mack said Bowdoin College students are holding a similar vigil on their campus, and will give their donations to the Freeport food bank.

“Compared to last year, I think the weather will be kind to us this weekend,” Mack said. “Throughout the years we’ve experienced rain, snow, sleet and thunder, but the most difficult was the negative temperatures last year.”

Mack said she expects a balmy, moon-lit night this year. She encouraged people to stop by and visit, and to bring canned goods or monetary donations.

The Good Shepherd Food Bank will provide $750 in matching food bank dollars, she said.

“It is such a good cause,” Mack said. “Just today I received five calls from people who need fuel assistance. If staying outside one night raises awareness, if one night helps a family stay warm or provides them with food, it is worth it.”

Amy Anderson can be reached at 781-3661 ext. 110 or aanderson@theforecaster.net


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