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How can you help asylum seekers in Portland?

The City of Portland is NOT accepting physical donations, but there is another way.

PORTLAND, Maine — More than 150 people seeking asylum have poured into Maine's largest city and more on the way, but how can you help?

The City of Portland said it is NOT accepting physical donations right now.

However, you can donate financially at portlandmaine.gov/donate. You can also text 'EXPO' to 91999.

RELATED: Mills, King & Collins to meet with Portland city leaders to address influx of asylum seekers

As of Friday afternoon, more than $200,000 had been raised.

The America Red Cross and Preble Street Resource Center are providing support at an emergency shelter at the Portland Expo.

The city is asking those who want to volunteer to NOT just show up, due to security concerns.

Instead, the United Way of Greater Portland is working with the city to accept and coordinate volunteers.  

RELATED: 10,000 miles and 4 months later immigrant leaves Cameroon seeking refuge in Maine

Maine Immigrant Rights Coalition and Catholic Charities Refugee Service is currently coordinating volunteers to help as interpreters and volunteer at the emergency shelter.

And Friday afternoon, the city of South Portland announced it has set up a separate account to support the asylum seekers arriving in Portland. 

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