Sleeping Bags for the Homeless - Portland, ME

In December of 2019, my mother told me about an article she read in the Portland Press Herald regarding the 40 homeless people in Maine who died from hypothermia in the winter of 2017/2018.  Many of these people have mental and emotional issues and/or substance abuse problems.  They are the most at risk population in our state.  Many homeless come to Portland and the Lewiston-Auburn area where there are services, but housing and shelters are in short supply.  Many sleep on the street in their clothes, boxes or whatever shelter they can find. 

My family wanted to help.  Last winter we pooled our money together and purchased 24 zero degree sleeping bags, donating them to services in Portland & L/A that assist the homeless - The Oxford Street Shelter in Portland and Trinity Jubilee Center in Lewiston.   The sleeping bags were appreciated, and I felt badly that we only had the 24 to donate.  It made us feel great to know we made a difference, but obviously many more were needed.  This year our goal is to purchase 90 sleeping bags and distribute them between the two cities.  Can you help?  Each sleeping bag costs $44.  Maine winters are severe and we need you!  We plan to purchase some bags to be delivered  by December 1st but will continue to take donations through January and place a second order for a February 2021 delivery.  Every dollar counts.  Thank you!