Medical Center Student Volunteers Launch Care Kit Project for Unhoused Patients

Date: 08/11/2025

Medical Center Student Volunteers Launch Care Kit Project for Unhoused Patients

Bangor, Maine  — High school student volunteers at Northern Light Eastern Maine Medical Center are making a big difference for some of the hospital’s most vulnerable visitors: individuals experiencing homelessness who seek care in the Emergency Department. As part of their 2025 Passion Projects, these students have launched a Care Kit Project—assembling toiletry kits with essential items like toothbrushes, soap, and deodorant, along with a resource card connecting recipients to local shelters, food pantries, and support services.

"We often see unhoused individuals come through our Emergency Department, and we know their challenges don’t end when they leave," said Laura LaCasse, Northern Light Community Health Coordinator. "These Care Kits offer dignity, comfort, and a connection to resources—showing them that we care about their well-being beyond their hospital stay."

The project grew from the students’ desire to extend compassion outside the hospital walls. “This idea started when I was in fifth grade and gave the only thing I had—a cookie—to someone experiencing homelessness,” said Beatrix Foster, student volunteer. “I wanted to do more, so my family began making Care Kits to carry with us. Now, bringing them to the hospital through our passion project is our next step in showing that everyone has worth and deserves support, even after they leave our care.”

How to Help:
• Drop off travel-size toiletries at main entrance of the hospital.
• Make a donation to help fund projects like these care kits at: give.northernlighthealth.org/2025passionprojects

For less than $5, you can help assemble a kit to provide comfort and hope during a difficult time.

Members of the media wishing to speak with Laura and Beatrix may contact Marketing and Communications at 207.973.9530 or emmcmediarequest@northernlight.org