FREEPORT — In 1974, concerned citizens in Freeport gathered together upon realizing some of their neighbors were struggling to attain basic necessities like food, heated homes, and even clothing. Operating out of a garage, the group began collecting and distributing items to those in need. Freeport Community Services was born and, 50 years later, it’s evolved into an organization that fulfills its mission through a range of programs and emergency and relief services including a food pantry, fuel assistance, a community center, summer camp scholarships, food programs for children, and holiday meals.
“FCS answers the call of spreading assistance and kindness in so many ways,” said Dan Walsh, president and CEO of Norway Savings Bank. “We’re thrilled to do what we can to help in the very spirit of their mission: ‘Neighbor Helping Neighbor.’”
Norway Savings Bank has been a large supporter of the organization for years, including a $1,000 donation this month and over $30,000 in the last decade.
“We’re truly grateful for the financial support Norway Savings Bank has provided FCS through the years. Our mission to enrich lives, connect neighbors, and help those in need in Freeport and Pownal continues stronger than ever thanks to support from local people and businesses like NSB,” said Christine Force, director of development and events for FCS.
Staff members, along with hundreds of volunteers from the community, truly make the incredible impact of FCS a reality, including the operation of a renowned thrift shop located in downtown Freeport that is open six days a week. From helping individuals who are homebound to providing vital sustenance to families confronting chronic hunger, FCS is driven to turn struggle into smiles.
“Their tireless work continues all year, including the holiday season,” said Walsh. “It’s so impressive to see the amount of Thanksgiving food baskets they assemble and the annual Thanksgiving Day meal at the Freeport Community Center.”
FCS also operates a Holiday Helpline by connecting anonymous donors with local families and adults who, in turn, are provided with up to two gifts for the adults and four gifts for children.
“We’re honored to play just a small part in the amazing work of FCS,” said Walsh. “NSB is grateful for who they are, what they do, and the incredible difference they make.”
There are so many ways to help Freeport Community Services in its work. To learn more about volunteering in one of the programs, call 207-865-3985, ext. 206, or visit www.fcsmaine.org/give/volunteer. To donate food or other items, call 207-865-3985, ext. 205, or email [email protected]. To make a financial contribution, visit www.fcsmaine.org/give.
Founded in 1866, Norway Savings Bank is a leading mutual banking and financial services company headquartered in Norway, Maine. As of September 30, 2024, Norway Savings Bank had $1.981 billion in total assets; 24 branch locations; and divisions in trust and investment services, personal banking, and business banking. It has received an “Outstanding” rating for three consecutive Community Reinvestment Act Exams from the FDIC. Norway Savings has also received the Best Place for Working Parents designation in 2022, 2023, and 2024, and was recognized with the “Best Wellness Employer – Gold Certification” for the sixth year in a row by Wellness Workdays. BauerFinancial has designated the Bank the “Best of Bauer” for earning and maintaining its highest 5-star rating for 34 continuous years. For more information, visit www.norwaysavings.bank.
