This holiday season, the spirit of giving reached new heights in Orono, Maine, and it’s all thanks to the incredible generosity of Black Bear Nation. But here’s where it gets heartwarming: in a record-breaking year of community support, local organizations and businesses joined forces to ensure that neighbors in need received essential food and clothing. Maine Athletics, University Credit Union, Marden’s Surplus & Salvage, Cianbro, and UMaine Golden Key are now saying a heartfelt Thank You to everyone who stepped up to make a difference.
Let’s break down the impact—because the numbers tell a story of compassion in action.
University Credit Union & Holden Police 25 Days of Kindness Food Drive:
- 29 boxes and 16 bags of food were collected and distributed to those in need.
- Donations poured in during the women’s ice hockey game on November 22 and the men’s ice hockey game on December 6.
Marden’s Surplus & Salvage Sock Drive:
- 289 pairs of socks were gathered—a small item, perhaps, but one that brings warmth and comfort to those without.
- The drive took place during the women’s basketball game on December 1.
UMaine Golden Key Warmth Drive:
- 498 clothing items were donated directly, with an additional 260 items purchased through monetary contributions.
- Collections happened at the men’s ice hockey game on November 15, the women’s ice hockey game on November 21, and the women’s basketball game on December 7.
Teddy Bear Toss, presented by Cianbro:
- 725 stuffed animals were collected, ready to bring smiles to children in need.
- The event took place during the men’s ice hockey game on December 13.
And this is the part most people miss: the giving isn’t over yet! Black Bear Nation has one more opportunity to make a difference. A second Marden’s Surplus & Salvage sock drive is scheduled for the men’s basketball game on January 24.
Controversial question to ponder: With so many successful drives, should we aim to make these efforts year-round instead of just during the holidays? Or is there something uniquely powerful about the holiday spirit that drives this level of participation?
Kudos to everyone who contributed—your kindness has made a tangible difference in the lives of many. Let’s keep the momentum going and continue to show what a community can achieve when it comes together.
-UMaine-
