SHARE Fund's joining with Somersworth program strengthens service outreach

From left, Skip Smith, Executive Director SHARE Fund Inc., welcomes Judy Strate, Deirdre Watson, and Sylvia Johns (Courtesy photo)

ROCHESTER - On Wednesday SHARE Fund Inc., officially welcomed the volunteers at Somersworth Share Fund to its non-profit organization.

SHARE Fund, committed to "Giving Hope to others through Sharing," made the move to strengthen support of folks seeking emergency financial assistance in the Somersworth-Rollinsford area. Both organizations began through the efforts of a group of caring community leaders including Father Paul Momtminy, Sister Helene Higgins, and local Rochester resident "Sis" Gagne.

"I am excited to combine our efforts and operations to better serve the needs of neighbors in Farmington, Rochester, Somersworth, and Rollinsford," said Executive Director Skip Smith. "I am honored to be a part of this wonderful organization and working together we can achieve more progress in relieving hunger and financial distress throughout a larger footprint of Strafford County."

SHARE Fund supports the needs of our community, which especially due to the ongoing COVID-19 crisis, along with other social and financial challenges, can place neighbors in difficult situations. For example, the pandemic has affected both young and old, not just by its health impacts, but by splitting apart families and creating emergencies resulting in financial, shelter, clothing, and food obstacles.

SHARE Fund is here to assist in combination with local and county welfare programs to keep individuals and families safe, sheltered, fed, and clothed.

About Our Organization:
The SHARE Fund began 30 years ago as an outreach ministry program of the Holy Rosary Church in Rochester. With the help, support, and guidance of the Parish, the SHARE Fund grew into a successful assistance service. In 2008, the SHARE Fund in Rochester became an independent nonprofit agency, federally registered as a 501c3 public charity. In 2010, the Somersworth Share Fund was formed to serve the needs of that community under the fiscal oversight of CAP. SHARE Fund Inc. continues to grow and has become an integral service provider for people in need living in our community. Programs include Gerrys Emergency Food Pantry, the Community Diaper Bank, Emergency Financial Assistance, and the Community Clothing and Thrift Store. SHARE Fund relies on donations to operate its programs and facilities. Visit sharefund.org or call 603-335-0011 to find out ways you can help, or be helped, in the Greater Farmington, Rochester, and now Somersworth area.