LEWISTON, Maine — The Lewiston Community is trying to heal in the wake of tragedy that struck two weeks ago. Dozens and dozens of fundraisers are in the works to support victims and their families as best we can.
Salt and Pine Company has raised more than $35,000 with its new "Maine Strong" T-shirt design, and store owner Amanda Dyer recently added a new sweatshirt to the lineup.
"In one design, it says so much, and you don't have to say anything at all," Dyer said.
Given the massive influx of purchases, Salt & Pine Company is joining forces with another Westbrook business, 320 Ink, to help get the first nearly 2,000 orders out the door.
"I never expected this much of a response," Dyer said. "I knew there was no way that I was going to be able to accomplish this alone."
Drue Nickerson, the owner of 320 Ink, said he was considering doing his own Lewiston fundraiser, but when he saw Salt & Pine Company's, he figured he would ask Dyer if he could help.
"I knew there'd be a big response to it, and we have the facility to print in mass," Nickerson said.
Dyer, a born and raised Mainer, said her shop Salt & Pine Company draws inspiration from none other than the state she calls home. So when Lewiston experienced such devastation, she immediately wanted to help.
"We just want to give back and make them feel like we see them, we hear them and that they're supported and that we're willing to do whatever it takes to show that," Dyer said.
Dyer said the outpouring of support from Mainers, out-of-staters, and even victims' families inspired her to add a new "Maine Strong" sweatshirt.
"Even just touching one person and knowing they're able to see this kind of support come together makes it all worth it. I don't care how many days I have to work for free just the support makes it all worth it," Dyer said.
All proceeds will be donated to families who were impacted by the mass shooting through the Maine Community Foundation's Lewiston-Auburn Area Response Fund.