South Paris folk artist raises twice her goal for Stephens food pantry

PHOTO: From left, Andrea Patstone, president of Stephens Memorial Hospital, artist Linda Richardson and Carl Costanzi, of the SMH Food Pantry. Richardson created folk art to raise money for the food pantry, and donated more than twice the goal amount she’d set. (Submitted photo)

NORWAY – South Paris resident and folk artist Linda Richardson recently presented Stephens Memorial Hospital Food Pantry with a gift of $1,240, more than twice the goal she’d set for her fundraiser.
Recognizing the year has been a challenging one for many families in the community, Richardson wanted to make a difference this holiday season. With leftover barn board pieces from her husband Jeff’s projects, she created winter tree folk art mantel décor, and the Hunger Trees Feed Local Families fundraiser was created. All proceeds benefited the SMH food pantry. She’d set a goal of $500 and within two weeks far exceeded her expectations.
“I’m so grateful for Linda’s contribution to the food -antry at Stephens,” Carl Costanzi, food pantry representative, said. “While I have funds to provide our patients and our local community member’s healthy and nutritious food, I haven’t had the funds for the personal hygiene products that our patrons are also in need of. These funds will help support that need in our community.”
One out of every five children in Maine and one out of every 10 individuals does not have reliable access to affordable, healthy food. The Stephens food pantry offers a welcoming and confidential space, providing a variety of free fresh, frozen and shelf-stable foods that support health and well-being. It’s made possible through a partnership with MaineHealth and the Good Shepherd Food Bank.