Modern Woodmen of America members in the Capitol area took part in the first-ever “Stress Less” cotton products drive. For the drive, which took place on September 30 at the Waterville Walmart, Modern Woodmen chapter members helped collect, purchase, and donate cotton products (pads, tampons, and underwear) to benefit Messalonskee Middle School. The success of this project is due to the dedication of school counselor Kris Croteau, MS, LCPC, and school nurse Jayne Champagne, MSN, RN, who identified the need and worked together to develop the project.
“Through this service project, we hope to shine a light on the problem of access to these products — and to begin to destigmatize menstruation, a natural bodily function,” says Mrs. Croteau. “We hope to keep this project going with the help of community members and businesses,” adds Mrs. Champagne.
These items will be distributed through the counselor’s office and nurse’s office of Messalonskee Middle School to people who are in need and can’t afford these items, or those who may otherwise need to miss school or leave early without timely access to these items. This is a problem that affects 1 in 5 school students, according to one study.
“We’re so happy to support our community in this way,” says Stacey Linehan, local Modern Woodmen volunteer leader. “Events like this give our members an opportunity to make a difference.”
Coordinated by local Modern Woodmen members, the fraternal financial services organization’s Summit chapters, chapters and youth service clubs provide opportunities for members to take part in social and educational activities and volunteer projects to meet local needs.
For more information or to get involved, contact Patrick Linehan at 207-465-4800 or patrick.r.linehan@mwarep.org.
written by Patrick Linehan
Modern Woodmen was founded in 1883 as a fraternal benefit society. The organization supports members, families, and communities with a unique blend of financial services, fraternal benefits and local-impact opportunities. In 2018, Modern Woodmen and its members provided $19.9 million and 470,000 volunteer hours to support fraternal activities and programs. Learn more at www.modernwoodmen.org.
RSU 18 Messenger 