Update August 24 to add final fundraising details.
North Yarmouth youth spend a few hours in the August sunshine to raise money to support a local charity that provides necessities to those who may be "starting over" or facing financial struggles.
Siblings Silas and Simone Dostillio, joined by their cousins Isla, Lincoln, and Evan Werrell, sold lemonade and cookies on August 21 to raise money to help Maine Needs.
According to its website, “MAINE NEEDS is a grassroots organization, powered by a growing collective of volunteers.” Founded in October 2020 with a free community donation center in Portland Maine, the need is growing.
The North Yarmouth cousins are proud to be part of that support network.
Maine Needs provides a range of support to help individuals and families meet their basic needs, bridging the gap to provide necessities such as clothing, hygiene products, and household items - things others might take for granted.
Before setting up the stand, Silas said they called the charity to ask if there was a specific item they could provide and were told underwear.
This is their 2nd year supporting the charity. Last year, they raised enough money to buy 303 pairs of underwear.
The kids had set up lemonade stands in the past but last August decided to use the proceeds for a specific purpose.
Leda Werrell said in 2022, they bought a range of sizes for men, women, children, and toddlers. The kids had to figure out how many to buy and actually make the purchase.
This year, they are hoping to surpass that number.
Maine Needs partners with schools, caseworkers, teachers, nurses, and professional care providers to provide material resources.
The family plans to buy the underwear later this week. If you missed the lemonade stand but would like to contribute towards reaching their goal, email Alicia Dostillio at awellsdostilio@gmail.com for information on how to donate; or Venmo Leda Werrell @Leda-Werrell.
Update: The group raised $691 and were able to purchase 431 pair of underwear, which they delivered to Maine Needs on August 24.
Comments