In response to the October 25, 2023 mass shooting in Lewiston, Maine, Unitil Corp. and its employees have come together to assist victims by providing a $110,855 donation to the Lewiston-Auburn Area Response Fund.
Established by the Maine Community Foundation, the fund ensures that 100 percent of each donation is allocated to those affected, and to the organizations supporting the community as it heals from the tragic events that resulted in the deaths of 18 victims. The shooting, which also left 13 wounded, was the deadliest in Maine’s history.
“This tragedy needlessly affected many lives and left all of us heartbroken. It will have far-reaching effects for many years to come,” said Unitil External Affairs Manager Alec O’Meara. “As a long-time business partner and neighbor in the Lewiston area, it is very personal for our customers and employees. We know the road to recovery will not be easy. Although we cannot take away the pain, we hope our support may provide at least some comfort to the victims, and to the community.”
The contribution from Unitil – a provider of electricity and natural gas to customers in New England – included a $100,000 corporate donation and an additional $10,855 raised through employee donations, each of which the company matched up to $200. The funds will be used to support victims’ families, the survivors, those who were present during the incidents and may have experienced trauma, and other nonprofit organizations addressing current and emerging needs of the community as the recovery process begins.
For additional information about the Lewiston-Auburn Area Response Fund and its mission, visit mainecf.org/2023/11/mainecf-establishes-lewiston-auburn-area-response-fund.
