Community Harvest recently awarded college scholarships to four Kennebunk High School graduates in recognition of their service to others. The scholarship winners will receive $2,000 each for their demonstrated commitment to volunteering or advocacy efforts that promote community building, diversity, and/or inclusion.

“This year’s honorees faced unprecedented circumstances during their high school careers as a result of the pandemic,” said Kerry de Bree, executive director of Community Harvest, in an Aug. 8 press release. “In evaluating the accomplishments of the applicants, our board was especially impressed by those who found ways to volunteer and help others amidst the challenges presented by COVID-19.”

This year’s recipients are:

Elaina Hammond, Kennebunk, a longtime Community Harvest volunteer, most recently served as a student member of the board of directors. She was chosen for her commitment not only to Community Harvest, but many other local organizations and social justice issues. Hammond plans to attend the Liverpool Institute of Performing Arts in Liverpool, England.

Caroline Van Hemel, Kennebunk, was selected for her volunteer work on behalf of her youth group and her efforts to support food insecure individuals in the community. Caroline plans to attend the University of Vermont.

Ian MacDonald, Kennebunk, was selected for his volunteer efforts during the pandemic, including delivering meals to seniors and finding a solution to help a neighbor’s business. Ian plans to attend the University of Rhode Island.

Kate Russell, Kennebunk, a longtime Community Harvest volunteer, was selected for her commitment to the organization’s holiday meals. In recent years, she was an important part of a core group of volunteers who kept the meals running despite the challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic. Kate plans to attend St. Joseph’s College.

For more information about Community Harvest scholarships, visit communityharvestmaine.org/projects/college-scholarships/.

Community Harvest was founded in 1999 and is a 501(c)3 nonprofit organization located in Kennebunk. The organization focuses on providing food and emergency community assistance for those living in Kennebunk, Kennebunkport, and Arundel, and offers all services free of charge. In addition to Project Pilgrim, Community Harvest hosts the complimentary Noel Dinner on Christmas Day, as well as Harvest Café, a complimentary dinner for the community on the third Thursday of every month at Holy Cross Lutheran Church in Kennebunk.

For more information, visit communityharvestmaine.org or call 207-967-1911.

Community Harvest awarded college scholarships to four Kennebunk High School graduates in recognition of their service to others. Recipients, from left, are Elaina Hammond, Ian MacDonald, Kate Russell and Caroline Van Hemel.

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