Update: The Maine Community Foundation and the Maine Philanthropy Center co-hosted a forum for funders on September 29 to discuss philanthropy's role in creating solutions to Maine's energy crisis. A summary of the event, including excerpts from Angus King's keynote address and a listing of 10 projects in need of funding support, can be found at the Maine Philanthropy Center website.

The Maine Community Foundation has been watching with increased concern the coverage of the predicted fuel crisis in Maine this winter. The rise in fuel prices, combined with the shortfall in energy aid from the Federal government and an increased number of applicants for energy assistance, have bearing on every aspect of community life.

The foundation is directing funds toward agencies providing direct assistance to people affected by the crisis. MaineCF has made a $100,000 grant to the Eastern Maine Funders' Energy Initiative for Neighbors to Neighbors, a small-grant program to support weatherization efforts in Hancock and Washington Counties. United Way of Eastern Maine (UWEM) is administering the program, and is currently accepting proposals for grants. For information about eligibility requirements, how to apply, and how to donate to the fund, visit UWEM’s website. The application deadline is November 1, 2008.

MaineCF's Washington County Committee also plans to make a $25,000 grant to the Washington-Hancock Community Agency to support its Heating and Warmth Fund (THAW).

MaineCF donors have been asking what they can do to help. We recommend staying informed about the State of Maine response through the energy policy initiative page on the Maine.gov website. This site offers a guide to available resources for homeowners, businesses, and the transportation industry, as well as a directory of organizations offering help to those who need it. The Governor's Pre-Emergency Energy Task Force final report, which was released this summer, can also be found there. Another important resource for identifying organizations involved with this issue is the 2-1-1 Maine website.

To direct funds to fuel assistance where it is most needed in Maine, donors can make grants to the Keep ME Warm Fund, a public and private collaboration whose aim is to help Mainers cope with the rising price of fuel. To target funds to a particular geographical region or effort (such as weatherization), we recommend a CAP (Community Action Partnership) agency or United Way.

For information about accessing grant funds or making donations to organizations addressing this crisis, please contact Garrett Martin, director of program strategy at MaineCF.

--September 23, 2008