Maine League’s Campaign to End Hunger Raises New Record Amount
WESTBROOK, Maine–During a special ceremony, Maine Credit Unions’ Campaign for Ending Hunger announced it raised $1,303,706.40 in food and monetary donations in 2024.
The achievement marks a new fundraising milestone for the Campaign, now celebrating its 35th year of fighting hunger in Maine in 2025, the Maine league said.
“Hunger touches every corner of our state, impacting individuals both young and old,” said MCUL President Elise Baldacci in a statement. “As an industry driven by a shared mission of People Helping People, credit unions are deeply committed to solving this problem—offering their time, talent, and resources to address our state’s meal gap. Their unwavering support to end hunger in Maine is clearly demonstrated by these remarkable fundraising results.”
According to the league, funds raised through Maine Credit Unions’ Campaign for Ending Hunger remain in Maine and directly support local organizations such as food banks, pantries, healthcare programs, schools, colleges, and meal sites. In 2024, the Campaign provided financial relief to 274 organizations.
Understanding the Struggles
“Credit unions see hunger in their communities, and they understand the struggles many individuals and families face when it comes to putting nutritious meals on their table,” said Jen Burke, VP-0utreach & strategic initiatives at the league, in a statement. “I am deeply proud to work in a movement that is committed to improving the lives of those they serve, whether that’s offering financial counsel, safe products and services, or a path to obtaining the food they need to thrive.”
According to the league, the event included remarks from Matthew Martin, Development Coordinator with EndHungerNE. Martin’s organization and its dedicated team of volunteers work across New England―including Maine—to pack healthy meals for individuals and families facing food insecurity.
In addition, the Campaign for Ending Hunger presented Full Plates Full Potential, Good Shepherd Food Bank, the Northern Light Eastern Maine Medical Center Community Cupboard, and the Barbara Bush Children’s Hospital each with a check for $5,000 to support their efforts to combat hunger.
Approaching $15 Million
“Since the Campaign’s inception in 1990, Maine credit unions have contributed over $14.9 million to help feed our neighbors in need,” added Baldacci. “With fundraising efforts already underway for 2025, I know our industry will continue making a meaningful impact, taking on this challenge with drive, passion, and determination.”