Tim Nangle: Supporting the people of Lewiston

By State Senator Tim Nangle

In the wake of the recent tragedy in Lewiston, we must do all we can to support the victims, their families, and the entire community that was affected by this horrific shooting. Although this tragedy did not happen in our area, Maine is "one big small town" at heart, and we’re all still reeling from the loss. With that in mind, I’d like to offer support and share resources that directly help Lewiston and the broader community.

State Sen. Tim Nangle

A safe haven has been established for those directly impacted by the mass shooting — the Lewiston Armory Family Assistance Center. Here, victims and their loved ones can find assistance, support, and a community of care. It's also a resource for survivors coping with the aftermath, even if they were not physically harmed.

The broader Lewiston community also needs our support. The Compassionate Care Fund for Trauma Response and Support by Central Maine Medical Center is available to help the entire city begin to heal. To learn more or contribute to these efforts, please get in touch with giving@cmhc.org or visit the "Ways to Give" section on the Central Maine Medical Center website.

In response to the immediate and evolving needs stemming from this crisis, the Maine Community Foundation created the Lewiston-Auburn Area Response Fund. All proceeds go to helping the Lewiston community heal and process the trauma of this mass shooting. Contributions can be made through their dedicated website. The City of Lewiston has also established a fund specifically to support the families and victims of this tragedy. Donations can be made directly on the City of Lewiston's donation page.

At all times, and especially now, our children's well-being is paramount. The Lewiston Public Schools Support Portal has been set up to address the needs of our students during this challenging time. Donations can be made through their website.

For anyone in need of immediate emotional support, the 988 Crisis Hotline is available. By calling or texting 988, you can access confidential assistance at any time. Crisis specialists are ready to respond and can also engage through an online chat via the Lifeline and 988 website.

It’s important to remind our teens and young adults that they are not alone. The NAMI Maine Teen Text Line specifically supports our younger community members. Reach out by texting (207) 515-8398 between noon and 10 p.m., seven days a week, or visit the NAMI Maine website.

As a former paramedic, I understand the mental toll that these tragedies can have on our first responders. For those on the front lines, including clinicians, educators, and first responders, the FrontLine WarmLine provides free support services. These heroes who manage disaster stress can access this resource by calling (207) 221-8196 or texting (207) 898-211 from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. daily.

Additional resources and ways to support Lewiston can be found on the Governor’s website at maine.gov/governor/mills/Lewiston.

As always, if you have questions or need any support, please reach out to me at Timothy.Nangle@legislature.maine.gov or call my Augusta office at 207-287-1515. For the latest updates, follow me on Facebook at facebook.com/SenatorTimNangle, and sign up for my e-newsletter at mainesenate.org. <