NSB Makes $20,000 Commitment to CrossWalk Community Outreach in Naples

“NSB’s generosity and kindness gives us the hope and determination to keep moving forward and work toward realizing our dream for the community.”

NAPLES — What began in 2008 with Mark Blankenship, Dave Moore, and a small group of committed volunteers providing donated food to 15 people in need has become an irreplaceable thread in the fabric of Naples.

Today, CrossWalk Community Outreach assists residents in five towns (Bridgton, Casco, Harrison, Naples, and Sebago), providing over 15,000 pounds of monthly food donations to more than 400 local families, helping them meet their basic needs with a healthy serving of hope included. The organization is entirely volunteer-operated. Beyond food distribution, CrossWalk’s programming has expanded through the years with the offering of free meals, a community garden, services for veterans and seniors, a clothing closet, a back-to-school backpack program, resource referrals, blood pressure screenings, holiday events like a free Thanksgiving meal and Christmas gifts for troops, and so much more.

As the impact has grown, so did the need for a larger facility. After three years without a permanent home, CrossWalk signed a lease for a 3,750 square-foot building on 11 October Road in Naples where in February, it will start to begin offering its full complement of services and care once again. In recognition of the organization’s mission and purpose, Norway Savings Bank is pleased to commit $20,000 to CrossWalk as it completes the transition to its new home (picture, caption of NSB representatives presenting the check to CrossWalk leadership below).

“It was a genuine pleasure to showcase the new center to NSB team members, and their enthusiasm, support, and guidance will continue to inspire and motivate us as we strive to grow and sustain the CrossWalk Community Outreach Center for our neighbors,” said Cathy Dennehy, Director of Marketing for CrossWalk Community Outreach. “NSB’s generosity and kindness gives us the hope and determination to keep moving forward and work toward realizing our dream for the community.”

“The new facility includes many amazing features, including a large open space for meetings and meals. So many people have stepped up to assist, including Reinhard Construction, LRE Electric, Clement Brothers Landscaping, and P&K Sand and Gravel,” said Rev. Joanna Moore, a CrossWalk board member. “Norway Savings Bank’s commitment is so generous and helpful. It makes us even more excited for the future.”

“CrossWalk Community Outreach works to ensure that local people are receiving the food and sustenance they need, but this critical service only begins to tell the story of its importance and the size and scope of the assistance it offers,” said Dan Walsh, President and CEO of Norway Savings Bank. “We’re so happy to play a small part in helping them make this transition to a new facility and grateful for the true difference they make in the lives of many people in need.”

In the coming months, the general public will be invited to come and take in the new facility as well as explore the many ways in which CrossWalk is helping turn struggles into smiles across the area. As it readies the new facility for use, CrossWalk leadership is already focusing on the next bridge to cross.

“Future goals include offering services that will make our community a healthier one like free cooking classes, a ‘homework helps’ after-school program, and other helpful programs,” said Rev. Moore. “That is our vision for this building.”

Since Mark’s first gathering 18 years ago, the CrossWalk vision has grown grander and, thanks to the dedication of leadership and volunteers in the years that have followed, continues to feels attainable.

The need for funding and in-kind contributions is great, and fundraising will continue as the organization aims to fully purchase the property and complete renovations. CrossWalk is also always in need of volunteers. If you are able to donate, volunteer, or otherwise assist, visit their website at www.crosswalkco.org or call 207-595-8736.

Pictured (L to R): Brian Siebert, Commercial Loan Officer VP for NSB; Mary Martell, Naples Branch Manager for NSB; David Moore, Crosswalk Community Outreach Board President; Cathy Dennehy, Director of Marketing for CrossWalk Community Outreach; Paul Dennehy, Executive Director of CrossWalk Community Outreach; Dan Walsh, President and CEO of NSB; Melissa Rock, Marketing Director SVP for NSB.