PORTLAND (AP) – Special collections in Maine Catholic churches for this spring’s flood victims in Aroostook County took in nearly $153,000.

Bishop Richard Malone says he’s overwhelmed, but not surprised by the size of the collection. The money will be distributed by Catholic Charities-Maine to individuals and families facing hardships as a result of the April flood.

Catholic Charities and the church are cooperating with government agencies to make sure flood victims are aware of assistance that’s available.

A disaster recovery center operated by state and federal emergency management agencies in Fort Kent will close next Saturday at 6 p.m. On June 16, the U.S. Small Business Administration will reopen that location as a disaster loan center.

To date, more than 500 people have visited recovery centers in Aroostook and Penobscot counties.

AP-ES-06-07-08 1030EDT