LEWISTON — S.G. Thibault Funeral Home and Rumford Eagles Auxiliary presented a check to Androscoggin Home Care & Hospice for $1,000, raised through their annual St. Patrick’s Dinner held March 15.

“I see firsthand the importance of hospice care. When planning final arrangements for a loved one, the families who have received support from hospice are much more at ease with the process,” said Dan Gauvin, of S.G. Thibault. “While still grieving, family members express that hospice prepared them for their loss and helped their loved one pass away comfortably. It’s an important service in our community and one we’re happy to support.”

“The Rumford Eagles Auxiliary’s purpose is to raise funds to support local organizations and local people,” said auxiliary members and sisters Marcia Surette and Pat Drakus. “We’re very happy to work with Dan and S.G. Thibault to support this event and AHCH.”

2015 marks the fifth year both organizations have partnered to raise funds to support hospice services. In total, the St. Patrick’s Dinners have raised more than $3,600.

“We’re so appreciative of S.G. Thibault and Rumford Eagles Auxiliary for their continued support,” said Julie Shackley, AHCH president and CEO. “AHCH provides more than $1 million in free care and support each year. We never deny care because someone doesn’t have the means to pay. Support from Family and Friends events like the St. Patrick’s Day dinner help make this possible.”

The 2015 St. Patrick’s Dinner was the largest to date.

“We served well over 100 meals,” said Surette. “Preparations begin very early in the morning and take a lot of work. It is worth it. We’re ready to do it all over again in 2016. Next year we can even hold the dinner on St. Patrick’s Day!”