Dear Kennebec Valley Community,

The news of the unthinkable tragedy in Lewiston is sending shock waves throughout Maine. United Way of Kennebec Valley hopes that you and your loved ones are safe. We are saddened by the senseless and heartbreaking shootings that took place yesterday and mourn the lives that have been lost. Maine is a small, close-knit state, and our hearts are with the victims’ families and friends, and with all those affected by this horrific act.

This is still a developing story, but what we do know is that even one person who has lost their life at the hands of another person is too many. We will continue to be there for our friends and colleagues in Androscoggin County and around the state. I urge us all to find comfort in each other, share our sorrow and pain, hold our loved ones close and stay strong for our communities.

Please know that United Way of Kennebec Valley stands ready with our partners to provide support in the wake of this tragedy. Please encourage people to reach out to the following resources as needed:

For connection to any resources: Contact United Way partner 211 Maine by calling 211 or texting your zip code to 898-211

For behavioral health crisis or thoughts of self-harm: Call Maine Crisis Line (988)

For mental health peer-to-peer support: Call Intentional Warmline (1-866-771-9276)

For youth ages 13-23 in need of support: Text NAMI Maine’s Teen Text Support Line (207-515-8398)

To donate blood: Search for a Red Cross blood drive near you

Hate has no place in our state. As we move forward, we will listen and learn with all of you, and do our best to support our communities.

With deep sympathy,

Courtney Yeager, President & CEO & Katie Doherty, Board Chair