LEWISTON – “I don’t know what I’d do without him,” said Doris, referring to Martial Fougeu who was born and raised in France, became a Canadian citizen in 1995 and recently became an American citizen living in Auburn.

The Catholic Charities Maine SEARCH program matched Fougeu with Doris when she called to ask for handyman services. She had lived in her home for 47 years and did not want to leave it because she couldn’t take care of her property.

“We were so pleased that Doris did not have to wait long for a volunteer,” said Phoebe Lowell, manager of the SEARCH program. “Martial was available to serve, and we treasure his many hours of service for Doris and for several of our other clients,” she said.

Fougeu contacted Catholic Charities Maine when he moved here with his wife in 2000. He is motivated to do volunteer work in order to “help and support people, give something back, and also for achievement and personal growth.” He is a quality assurance supervisor in an electronic product design and manufacturing services company in Gray.

SEARCH stands for Seek Elderly Alone, Renew Courage and Hope. Its mission is to enable frail, vulnerable elderly and those with disabilities to remain independent and in their own homes for as long as possible.

Financial donations from individuals, businesses and civic groups are encouraged and may be sent to SEARCH, 15 Westminster St., Lewiston, ME 04240.

SEARCH is looking for interested persons of all ages and religious denominations who would like to be a friendly telephone caller, visitor or part-time helper for an elderly person in Androscoggin County.

For more information about becoming a short-term or longer-term volunteer or to refer someone as a client, call the program office at 784-0157.