For more than two decades, Vassie Fowler of Biddeford has been an outspoken advocate and champion for those who find themselves struggling with food insecurity, housing and mental health problems.

Fowler, 57, says it’s just in her nature to be concerned and wanting to help those who are less fortunate. “I am blessed beyond comparison,” she said during a recent interview. “I cannot imagine not giving back to the community where I live.”

A native of Old Orchard Beach, Fowler moved with her family to Florida when her parents became divorced. But she has long since considered Biddeford “home,” primarily because her family owned and operated a well-known sandwich store in the city.

“I always kept coming back to Biddeford. We were like homing pigeons,” she laughed. “I loved the sun and beaches in Florida, but after Hurricane Andrew and then Hurricane Charlie,” (I had enough). “We went without electricity for more than 30 days. That’s when I said enough is enough.”

Today, Fowler serves as executive director at the Seeds of Hope Neighborhood Center on South Street in Biddeford, a community resource for those who are struggling with homelessness, hunger and other issues.

You are well-known in this community. How did that happen?

“Well, it pretty much started when we opened Union House, which was then a coffee house. But it became quickly apparent that we would have to sell a ton of coffee just to pay the rent. Jack and I had been married for only five months, and we were having margaritas and we decided to make Union House a pizza and pub establishment.

“We didn’t even know how to make pizza, but we just dug in and made it work. It was one of the first businesses to occupy what were then pretty much vacant mill spaces downtown. A lot of people enjoyed hanging out there, and that’s how I became involved in the community around me.”

So, what was your first project?

“We were driving one day, and I saw long lines of people waiting for the Stone Soup Food Pantry to open. I was really intrigued with what they were doing, so I just stopped in, introduced myself and asked them, how can I help?

“It was just before Thanksgiving and they said they could use some turkeys. So, we rounded up more than 100 donated turkeys. The next year, we were able to donate more than 250 turkeys.”

Union House became a fixture in downtown Biddeford. Why did you guys decide to close it?

“Well, there were a lot of things. Basically, as the mills became more popular, parking became more of an issue. We had a good seven or so years, but it’s hard to work with your spouse every day (Laughs)”

So, what came next?

“I did some catering gigs, but I knew that food service wasn’t really my true passion. I saw a job posting on Facebook. Opportunity Alliance was looking for a community organizer. Union House afforded me the opportunity to make that work. I also worked at UNE [University of New England] and York County Community College as a food and beverage director for Sodexo, the contract company that provided those services.

“And then COVID hit, and I got laid off. Right when it started, I knew that COVID was something that was going to be a game-changer for our nation. Some people were saying that it was just going to last a couple weeks, but I saw what was coming and how it was going to change pretty much everything, from our economy to how we do business and socialize.”

“I began looking for another job right away, and again on Facebook, I saw that York County Community Action Corps was looking to hire an outreach worker for special populations. About the same time, I was also working as a volunteer for Toys for Tots.”

“It’s just not in my nature to walk away from people in need.”

You and Jack were featured every year as Mr. Mrs. Santa Claus for Biddeford’s Downtown Holiday celebration. What other community activities were you doing?

“Well, one thing just sort of led to another. I served on several boards and commissions, including the Joyful Harvest Neighborhood Center, Toys for Tots in Northern York County, and I was elected to serve on the Biddeford School Committee.”

The mayor gave you and Jack a key to the city.

“Yes, he did. I don’t know if it actually works.” (Laughs)

You’re also very involved in the Biddeford-Saco Elks Club.

“I am. I served two terms as the exalted ruler of our local club, and I volunteer on a number of assignments at the state level. I really like the Elks because they have a great reputation in our community. I really wanted to be part of a group that was bigger than just what I was doing on my own. I was named officer of the year last year.

“It’s very affirming to be recognized and appreciated for your efforts, and I consider myself very fortunate.”

When you’re not working or volunteering in the community what do you like to do for fun?

“Fun for me looks like vacation. On the beach with my toes in the sand and a good book. I’m an avid reader. I used to read more than 100 books a year. I’m not the kind of person to defer my vacation time. I take it as soon as it’s available.”

“We’ve heard that you love Dachshunds. How many do you own?”

“I’m not going to answer that question. (Laughs). Do they have a Dachshunds Anonymous? (Laughs) All I can say is that they bring me so much joy and comfort.”

Randy Seaver can be contacted at randy@randyseaver.com.