DEAR SUN SPOTS: Every day is a good one when we have Sun Spots to read.

I want to know if there is any way for animal lovers to get help with feeding their much-loved pets in these hard economic times. Some people don’t have it in their hearts to give them up but do need help in feeding them.

Thank you for such a delightful and helpful column. — Faithful Reader via email

ANSWER: Last March reporter Lindsay Tice did a story about pet food pantries in Maine (sunjournal.com/city/story/1001317). At that writing, there were nine in Maine. Locally, one is in Fairfield (http://pfpmaine.org/, P.O. Box 491, Fairfield ME 04937, 409-5904), another in Bridgton (the Animal Rescue Unit, http://tinyurl.com/6sdo8le, P.O. Box 50 North Bridgton ME 04009, [email protected]) and a third, focused on dogs, is L-A based (www.packlife.org, 754.5757, [email protected]).

Some of the local food banks for people are offering pet food as well. Sun Spots talked to Heidi at Good Shepherd Food-Bank. She said they do get some pet food in, but save it for the animal shelters with which they are associated. However, if you have a neighborhood food bank, Sun Spots feels certain most would not reject a pet food donation.

Lastly, as Heidi mentioned to Sun Spots, many animal rescue groups are not well-funded and would welcome your donations of cash or pet food.

DEAR SUN SPOTS: I saw the March 1 column where the husband’s goal is to start a farm. Good for him! Maine needs more organic farmers to provide us with a fresh and safe food supply.

May I suggest another reference where he will find help in developing his business plan? I am an ambassador to Women Work & Community. This organization has assisted many individuals, male and female, with retraining to start up their own small businesses. They will provide education, tools, networking and have helped aspiring farmers who are now in business.

WWC operates out of six geographical regions. Their primary contact information is 46 University Drive, UMA, Augusta, 04330-9410, 621-3440; 800-442-2092; www.womenworkandcommunity.org — Alfreda Fournier, [email protected]

DEAR SUN SPOTS: I am responding to the young man aspiring to farm (March 7).

I am 70 years old and looking to retire from my farm, and want it to remain a farm for the future generations. I am interested in talking with this young family. If any interest, I can be reached at Little Alaska Farm. — Roger, [email protected]

DEAR SUN SPOTS: A few months ago a physician suggested I put a hot washcloth on my eyes to loosen the tearducts instead of using eyedrops every day when my eyes would get dry. I have been doing this since he told me, and I no longer have to use drops.

For years people rush to hot springs, ladies use hot packs for a nice complexion, and we all know a good hot shower always helps a tired body, so why not do the same for your eyes and save money as you make your eyes feel better? — George, [email protected]

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