FARMINGTON — The Maine 4-H Foundation, in partnership with Paris Farmers Union and 55 businesses statewide, raised $7,000 for youths in every Maine county.

During September and October, 4-H sold paper clovers for $1 each, with proceeds supporting county-based 4-H programs and statewide programs, including Citizen Washington Focus held at the National 4-H Youth Conference Center in Chevy Chase, Md.

An estimated 6,600 people contributed to supporting Maine 4-H. Participating local businesses included Whitewater Farm in New Sharon and Paris Farmers Union in Jay. Businesses that would like to participate next year may call Angela Martin at the 4-H Foundation at 581-3739 or e-mail [email protected].

“Initiating a statewide effort to raise money for 4-H programs means more programs that impact youth,” said Audrey Chapman, executive director Pine Tree State 4-H Foundation.

Annually 25,000 youth participate in Maine 4-H which is the youth development program of the University of Maine Cooperative Extension. To learn more, visit www.extension.umaine.edu.