The parish was honored by Catholic Charities Maine Parish Social Ministry for its food pantry, monthly community meal, and funeral luncheons. The award was presented by Bishop James Ruggieri.
Catholic Charities Maine
In a twist on Giving Tuesday, when many nonprofits ask for donations, Catholic Charities Maine uses the day to spread warmth to others.
The St. Francis Recovery Center in Auburn helps men struggling with substance use and other co-occurring use disorders. Many of its workers are in recovery themselves.
In an effort to do all they can to help Maine individuals and families in need, several Maine parishes operate thrift stores, with the assistance of many generous volunteers, to raise funds for parish and community initiatives, provide venues for giving, and to offer local people the opportunity to purchase quality goods at reasonable prices.
Recognizing the power of art to inspire change and the creative energy of youth, Catholic Charities Maine’s Parish Social Ministry program is sponsoring an art activity for teens entitled “Poster Power.”
The students gathered hats, mittens, coats, snow pants, and other winter items for asylum seekers, including children and adults, who are staying at a Saco hotel property secured by the state.
Now in its 16th year, the Esther Residence is a transitional program for women who are leaving incarceration and/or treatment programs. It provides a safe, nurturing community based on safety, respect, and dignity. The home is a bridge that promotes healthy connections to family and the larger community.
Catholic Campaign for Human Development (CCHD) grants support local parish initiatives that aim to solve community-wide problems, empowering the poor to make life changes that allow them to become more self-sufficient.
The St. Thérèse Food Closet in Sanford was the 2022 recipient of Catholic Charities Maine Parish Social Ministry's Matthew 25 Award, given to support social ministry programs.
The importance of putting God first, followed by family, are lessons Stephen Letourneau, CEO of Catholic Charities Maine, says he learned from his parents, who continue to be his mentors to this day
Catholic Charities Maine's Education Services for Blind and Visually Impaired Children has been serving youths across the state for 48 years.
The Catholic Charities Maine Food Bank says times are tougher than they've ever been
April 30, 2026
Event
Catholic Charities Maine will mark its 60th anniversary with a fundraising gala on Thursday, April 30, at 6 p.m. at the University of New England’s Innovation Hall in Portland. The milestone event will celebrate six decades of service dedicated to providing help, creating hope, and strengthening individuals and families across Maine.
