BANGOR — With an autumn chill in the air and memories of last year’s frigid winter, many families, seniors and other individuals already are worrying about how they will cover the cost of high heating bills when their budgets are strained with their regular bills. That is why The Salvation Army will host its annual Harvest Auction to raise money for its fuel fund that will help to fill the gap for those struggling with the expense of heating.
The auction will be held Friday, Oct. 17, at Spectacular Event Center, with a silent auction and dinner at 6 p.m. and the live auction at 7 p.m. It will also feature live music and a variety of unique items up for auction, all for an admission cost of $20.
“We saw a clear need to raise funds specifically for heating assistance after last year’s especially brutal winter,” said Capt. Tim Clark, corps officer of the Bangor Salvation Army. “Many who were trying their best to manage their bills were hit hard by the cost of heating, and they turned to us to meet their immediate need while they worked on long-term solutions. Funds raised through the auction will allow us to be there for more families and individuals in their time of need.”
The Salvation Army’s fuel fund is often a stop-gap measure for those who have sought longer term assistance, such as LIHEAP, but are still in the process of receiving approval. The waiting period can present a challenge to those who are working to provide for their families but whose resources are overwhelmed by the expense of heating.
The auction will feature many unique items and experiences that will make for a fun night of bidding for those who attend. Items include an autographed copy of Stephen King’s book “Full Dark, No Stars,” orthodontic services by Bangor Braces, a signed copy of an original Patriots logo by Phil Bissell, a weekend vacation rental in Surry, a scenic airplane tour on Katahdin Air, University of Maine football tickets and sporting gear, antique dolls, tickets to concerts at the Cross Center and much more. The silent auction also will include a variety of items sure to interest those who attend, organizers said.
Tickets may be purchased at The Salvation Army locations at 65 South Park St., at 585 Broadway in Bangor or at the door. Donations of items to be auctioned are still being accepted. For information, contact 941-2990 or salvationarmyme.org/bangor.