Altrusa Club assembles winter survival packs to help the homeless

BIDDEFORD — Members of the local Altrusa Club committed to doing their part to help the homeless through their Winter Survival Project.

Altrusa International of Greater Biddeford-Saco partnered with area businesses for the project: Hyperlite Mountain Gear, located in the Pepperell mill campus, donated 10 packs; Saco and Biddeford Savings Bank made a financial donation and US Felt Company donated 10 survival blankets.

The club purchased sleeping bags, mess kits, socks, Sterno fuel cans and personal hygiene kits to put in the packs. University of New England student volunteers Jenni Andreade, Katelyn Smith and Lydia McCrillis joined club members to prepare the packs for distribution. 

The packs have been given to the Biddeford Police Department, Bon Appetit meal site, Seeds of Hope community center, Saco Police Department and Saco Food Pantry.

We are told that every little bit helps, said Altrusa International of Greater Biddeford-Saco members, and the group did its “little bit” for their homeless neighbors.

Altrusa is an international non-profit organization making local communities better through leadership, partnership, and service. If you are interested in learning more about Altrusa, or joining the group, go to the club’s website at districtone.altrusa.org/Biddeford-Saco or contact President Sandy McKenney via email at rmckenney5@maine.rr.com.