2025 Loss of local gathering places leads to mental health decline The social landscape of today's Washington County is very different than that of yesteryear.
2025 Aid organizations seeing increased need; Fuel funds stressed by requests Demand for heating fuel is high in Washington County as households contend with rising costs for their essentials. Applications for the Low Income Heating Assistance Program (LIHEAP) are up more than 25%, while the average benefit is decreasing.
2024 Two Washington County programs receive opioid recovery funding Two organizations that serve Washington County residents -- Healthy Acadia and Day One --- have been awarded funds as part of the Maine Recovery Council's recent efforts to distribute $13.9 million to organizations involved in opioid recovery across the state.
2024 St. Stephen shelter for homeless opens People without homes in St. Stephen now have a place to get out of the cold this winter. The Lighthouse Lodge opened for business in the former Masonic Hall on Main Street about a week before Christmas, with the mercury dropping to below freezing.
2024 Area holiday giving programs provide gifts, basic necessities The communities of Passamaquoddy Bay were gifted with kindness over the holiday as giving programs saw volunteers rallying resources together to provide toys and necessities to those who are financially struggling this year.
2024 Firetrucks bring Santa to local children The connection between Santa and fire departments is historically strong -- and not just because both are tied to chimneys and have modes of transportation colored bright red.
2024 County childcare opportunities expand with new center opening Efforts are under way across Washington County to expand access to flexible childcare -- including the upcoming opening of a new facility at the former Charlotte Elementary School -- in an attempt to meet unmet need.