LEWISTON – Androscoggin Head Start and Child Care recently received a donation from the Catholic Charities Maine SEARCH (Seek Elderly Alone, Renew Courage and Hope) Program.

Estelle Rubinstein, executive director for Androscoggin Head Start and Child Care, accepted handmade hats and mittens from Phoebe Lowell, program director, SEARCH. The knitted and crocheted items were the work of the volunteers in the SEARCH program.

Rubinstein said, “Year after year, SEARCH volunteers have taken their time to help the children in our programs. Hats and mittens are always needed, and this donation will help to keep many of the children at Androscoggin Head Start and Child Care warm. Thank you so much for your generosity.”

SEARCH is a nondenominational program in Androscoggin County that promotes independent living for elderly and disabled people in Maine. Its mission is to enable the frail, vulnerable, elderly and those with disabilities to remain independent and in their own homes for as long as possible.

Community volunteers are recruited, trained and supervised by SEARCH staff. The services are delivered free and are designed to enhance quality of life. Services include home visitation, telephone reassurance, information and referral and a range of special services such as assistance with transportation, home and yard chores, and errands.

The SEARCH program can be reached at 784-0157. SEARCH is a United Way funded and Lewiston Community Development Block Grant supported agency.

Androscoggin Head Start and Child Care has provided child development services to pregnant women, families and children, newborn to age 5, for more than 41 years. Options include full-day, half-day, home-based, family childcare and infant and toddler early Head Start.

Services are provided annually to more than 400 children and families throughout Androscoggin County. Centers are located in Lewiston, Auburn, Lisbon Falls, Livermore Falls, Mechanic Falls and Turner.

Applications are accepted at any time. Most Head Start programs are free to eligible children. Full day childcare services are available on a sliding fee scale for parents who are working, continuing their education, or participating in job training. Call 795-4040 for more information or visit www.androkids.com. Androscoggin Head Start and Child Care is a United Way funded and Lewiston and Auburn Community Development Block Grant supported agency.