LEWISTON – Christmas was not just another long day, due to the employees of Liberty Mutual. After receiving a “wish list” from the SEARCH program, Diane Roy coordinated a gift-giving program for 15 elderly or disabled people who do not often receive presents during the holidays. She brought all the wrapped gifts to the SEARCH program office for an “on-time” delivery.

“Liberty Mutual has been a strong supporter of the SEARCH program for many years,” said Phoebe Lowell, program manager. “Their gifts of time, birthday cards, holiday presents and funding are invaluable in our mission to bring hope and independent living to the elderly and disabled in our community.”

One of the program clients sent a note after Christmas and said, “I want to thank all of you nice people who were so generous for Christmas. I had never got much in my life, and that was all I got for Christmas because I have a small family now. They are all gone except my daughter. God bless all of you. I will not forget this nice Christmas.”

Catholic Charities Maine SEARCH stands for Seek Elderly Alone, Renew Courage and Hope. Its mission is to enable frail, vulnerable elderly and those with disabilities to remain independent and in their own homes for as long as possible.

Financial donations from individuals, businesses, and civic groups are always encouraged and may be sent to SEARCH, 15 Westminster St., Lewiston, ME 04240.

The program is looking for interested persons of all ages and religious denominations who would like to be a friendly telephone caller, visitor or part-time helper for an elderly person in Androscoggin County. For more information about becoming a short-term or longer-term SEARCH volunteer or to refer someone as a client, call the program office at 784-0157.

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