DEAR SUN SPOTS: In your Dec. 30 column you responded to an inquiry regarding services for the homeless in rural Maine. I would like to bring to your attention for future reference services for homeless youth provided by New Beginnings in the rural areas of Franklin, Androscoggin and Kennebec counties.

We have housed hundreds of youth and young adults through our outreach services in Farmington and would appreciate you including us in your directory of services in Franklin County. Thank you. — Bob Rowe, executive director, [email protected]

ANSWER: Sun Spots should have thought of New Beginnings. Fortunately, it seems likely that the United Way (dial 211 for help), which Sun Spots did mention, would refer callers to New Beginnings.

At any rate, here is some information about New Beginnings that readers may find useful.

New Beginnings Inc. is a private nonprofit agency based in Lewiston. Established in 1977, New Beginnings has an emergency shelter at 491 Main St., Lewiston, 207-795-4070, which provides short-term emergency care and family intervention for up to 12 youth ages 12 through 19.

It also strives toward a comprehensive approach to the needs of abused, neglected and homeless youth and their families.

The transitional living department, Lewiston, Augusta and Farmington, 207-795-6048, provides housing and supportive services to help older adolescents (ages 16 to 21) develop the attitudes and skills necessary for independent living. Services are designed for youth and young adults who are homeless or are at risk of homelessness. Referrals may be made by calling 795-4074 weekdays from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.

The outreach program has offices at 245 Lisbon St., Lewiston, 207-795-6831; 124 Main St., Farmington, 207-778-6193; and 151 Sewall St., Augusta, 207-621-0004. The outreach program main office and drop-in center is located in downtown Lewiston and serves youth ages 14 to 21 who are homeless or at risk of homelessness.

New Beginnings also helps youth transition from homelessness, provides assistance with mental health and substance abuse issues, and education and counseling for at-risk youth.

DEAR SUN SPOTS: I wonder if you or any of your readers know what to do with diabetic supplies that are no longer being used? All are unopened testing supplies. Is there some place to donate them? Hate to see them thrown into the landfill. Thank you for your valuable service to the public. — [email protected]

ANSWER: Sun Spots’ experience with most charities is that they won’t take or distribute medical supplies. (If she’s wrong, please email her with contact information.) However, she expects your email in box will rapidly fill up with requests from people who would like to have them.

DEAR SUN SPOTS: Happy New Year, Mrs. Sun Spots! As someone who drives Route 136 twice a day, five days a week, I was hoping you may start the new year by reminding your readers to be very cautious on blind curves and hills.

Nearly every day I come over a hill or curve in the road to find someone flying in my direction slightly over the yellow line. This is incredibly dangerous, especially with skinnier roadways and near-constant slick spots this time of year.

Please help make this a great year for everyone by driving safely and helping your fellow Mainers get to their loved ones in one piece! — No Name, No Town

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 [email protected].