DEAR SUN SPOTS: A few weeks ago you listed several nonprofits that could use fabric and notions. I have already given to both but cannot find the address of Deb. I have more notions for her sewing class. Thank you. — Kris Cornish, kcornish@costumesofmaine.com

ANSWER: That column generated several responses, including the letter that follows. After it, Sun Spots presents the complete list of groups requesting fabric, yarn and notions, to date. If your group isn’t on it, or if you want to add or change information, please email sunspots@sunjournal.com.

DEAR SUN SPOTS: In response to your Aug. 6 column, I’d like to supply the name of the Reed Mills Ladies Circle, an outreach of the Reed Mills Church (open July through August with other special times), the little old church in the wild woods of Madrid Township.

This group makes quilts and other cloth goodies for sale to benefit the church, which was established in the late 1800s by our great-grandparents. The sewing circle includes longtime members down to teenagers.

I’m proud to say I’ve been a member for 20 years. My grandparents, C. Wing and N. Sargent, were the first couple to be married there in the early 1900s. Our great-grandfather, Morrill Wing, laid the cornerstone.

Thank you for any donations. — Marilyn R. Bachelder, 684-3315, and Marie W. Bubier, 639-4666 

ANSWER: Sun Spots hopes she spelled all the names correctly. Handwriting sometimes get the best of her.

And, as promised, here is the list of nonprofit groups. At the end of each group it indicates if they are looking for fabric, yarn or notions:

* Loaves & Fishes and the Dominican Sisters, Sister Lucille, lfournier@sabattusdominicans.org, yarn and fabric

* Market Square Health Care Center, South Paris, Marianne Harlow, director of social services, 207-743-7086, ext. 5305, galloma@wmhcc.org, need Brothers’ needles, cloth, thread, stuffing for pillows, sewing and craft items

* Hats for needy children, BrenDay Choiniere,choiniereking@yahoo.com, 207-440-7882, yarn

* Maine’s Hats for Hope Initiative, P.O. Box 72, South Paris, ME 04281, www.facebook.com/pages/Maines-Hats-For-Hope-Initiative/387641657968785, Sarah, hatsforhopeinitiative.maine@gmail.com, yarn

* Newborns in Need, Androscoggin County Chapter Director Denise Pettengill, Lewiston@newbornsinneed.org, 207-795-6538, fabric (cotton or flannel especially), batting, thread, yarn, and crochet and knitting needles

* Germaine Nolan in Lewiston, 207-777-1593, knits blankets for the cats at the Greater Androscoggin Humane Society. Germaine is nearly 90 and doesn’t drive, so you’ll need to deliver or mail the yarn to her.

* Tree Street Youth, Lewiston, Deborah Lewis, 357-8300, fabric and yarn

DEAR SUN SPOTS: I was wondering if someone could help me find a scooter. MaineCare won’t pay for one. 

If one of your readers would loan me one or if they know where I could get one I would like the help. I have trouble walking. — R., No Town

ANSWER: Individuals cannot ask for items of value for free. They can offer to pay for something they cannot find, and sometimes another reader has the item being sought and is willing to sell it inexpensively or give it away.

In this case, even if Sun Spots had been willing to include the name and phone number, she would have been stymied, as she could not make out the signature on the letter and no address was included.

If someone has a suggestion for R. in obtaining a scooter, Sun Spots will run it in the column so R. can contact them. 

DEAR SUN SPOTS: On Aug. 10 the Spear family had a benefit in Canton to help raise money for Alan Spear, who was involved in a motor vehicle accident and remains in serious condition. Alan is 18 years old and just beginning his life. He loves horses and was working hard to become a farrier.

The response from businesses in surrounding towns has been amazing. Words cannot express the gratitude the family feels for everyone’s help.

The family would like to thank all who assisted and/or donated to make the Hope for Healing benefit for Alan a success. Thank you all very much. — Linda Spear, mams4_05@yahoo.com

This column is for you, our readers. It is for your questions and comments. There are only two rules: You must write to the column and sign your name (we won’t use it if you ask us not to). Please include your phone number. Letters will not be returned or answered by mail, and telephone calls will not be accepted. Your letters will appear as quickly as space allows. Address them to Sun Spots, P.O. Box 4400, Lewiston, ME 04243-4400. Inquiries can also be emailed to sunspots@sunjournal.com.

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