Help Put Thanksgiving Meals on 5,500 Tables | | |
Thanksgiving is just around the corner, and you can help make the holiday a little brighter for families, older adults, and neighbors across our communities. This year, the Penquis Turkey Drive aims to help provide Thanksgiving meals for at least 5,500 households.
Ready to help? Give through the Penquis website, text TURKEY to 44321, or join us at one of these upcoming events:
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Free the Z:
November 17–22
Brewer Hannaford parking lot
Stop by and donate a turkey in person.
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WABI Turkey Telethon:
Thursday, November 19, 4–6 p.m.
Tune in to WABI and make your gift during the telethon.
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“This support matters because it offers more than food. It provides relief, preserves dignity and choice, and reminds residents that they are valued and remembered during the holidays.”
~ Bangor Housing
| | | Make the Holidays Brighter for a Local Child | | |
Christmas is for Kids is back! Through Penquis and Blueberry Broadcasting, you can help make the holidays brighter for one of 1,300 children throughout Penobscot, Piscataquis, and Knox counties. Visit www.christmasisforkids.org to choose a child or family and shop their holiday wishes (gifts must arrive at Penquis by Wednesday, December 16). Pro tip: When shipping gifts to Penquis, use the child’s assigned code as the recipient’s name so gifts reach the right child.
No time for shopping? Make a monetary donation and Penquis will purchase gifts for children who still need sponsors.
Ready to help? Choose a child or family at www.christmasisforkids.org. Every sponsor makes a difference! ❤️
| | Celebrating Skills, Friendship and Team Spirit | | Athletes came together October 21 for the PPH Special Olympics bowling competition, filling the lanes with encouragement, teamwork, and plenty to celebrate. From strikes and spares to personal accomplishments, the day was about more than scores. It was an opportunity to build confidence, strengthen friendships, demonstrate sportsmanship, and celebrate each athlete's abilities. Congratulations to all of the bowlers, and thank you to the coaches, volunteers, families, and supporters who made the day possible! | | Finding Connection Through Shared Experience | | |
Sometimes the most meaningful support comes from someone who understands because they have been there, too. The Penquis Peer Support Group brings people together through shared experiences, trust, and connection.
Hear directly from participants about what peer support has meant to them. Watch the video by clicking here or below!
| | CAN-Zilla came ready to “crush out hunger” and brought home a trophy! The Penquis team created the monster truck entry for Heart of Maine United Way's CANstruction competition, where it became a fan favorite. Congratulations to the team! | | Thank you to Heart of Maine United Way and all of the participants for supporting our neighbors facing food insecurity. | |
Dessert and a Good Cause
Treat yourself to an evening of delicious desserts and lively bidding, all while supporting an important cause!
November 20, 6:00 p.m.
Hilton Garden Inn, Bangor
Free Admission
A tempting selection of appetizers and desserts will be served, and guests can bid on delicious desserts throughout the evening. Come enjoy a sweet evening while supporting Rape Response Services!
| | | Need Help with Health Insurance? We're Here | |
Open Enrollment for the Health Insurance Marketplace runs November 1, 2026, through January 15, 2027, and you don't have to navigate it alone. Penquis can help at no cost. Please reach out to schedule an appointment. Contact Theresa Cucinotti tcucinotti@penquis.org or call 207-973-3645.
To learn more, visit https://www.coverme.gov/learn
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Volunteer for Toyland
Help make the holiday season brighter for local children by volunteering with Penquis Toyland.
Volunteers are needed to help arrange and display donated toys, as well as assist families as they select toys for their children. Shifts are available throughout December at the Penobscot Room, 262 Harlow Street in Bangor. Help provide a welcoming and joyful experience for families.
Ready to help? Sign up to volunteer here. For everyone's safety, children under age 11 may not volunteer.
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An Hour of Your Time Can Make a Difference
Sometimes making a difference can be as simple as sharing a conversation. Penquis is looking for volunteers who would enjoy spending time with residents at our assisted living facilities in Millinocket, Bangor, and Camden.
Assisted Living provides support for adults 55 and older, helping them maintain their independence while living in a safe and supportive environment. An hour of your time can brighten someone's day.
For more information, contact Katlyn Engstrom at kengstrom@penquis.org or 207-270-0266.
| | | 2027 Penquis Art Calendars Are Here | The 2027 Penquis Art Calendar features artwork created by participants in the Penquis Day Program. Artists are compensated for the use of their work, and proceeds from calendar sales support the program. Each calendar is $5 and makes a great gift. Contact crice@penquis.org to order yours! | | Choose a Way to Make a Difference | | |
There are many ways to be part of the work happening across our communities. Find the one that feels right for you:
For more information on how you can make a difference, contact Carin Sychterz at 207-802-3034 or csychterz@penquis.org.
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From helping put Thanksgiving meals on tables and making the holidays brighter for children, to cheering on athletes, supporting local artists, and giving the gift of time, there are so many ways people make a difference in our communities.
Thank you for being part of the Penquis community and for the many ways you help create connection and opportunity. We wish you a warm and joyful holiday season.
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