Newport Woman Puts Up ‘Giving Line’ To Help People Through Winter

When sheer opinion gets in the way in any conversation, it's easy to forget what other people go through sometimes. I see lots of folks online making it seem like folks who are out of work right now are just lazy. Deep down, we all know that's not true. Especially right now, the pandemic has created an unreal unemployment scenario.

More than ever, especially in more rural areas, there are a lot of folks out of work. And further still, a lot of those that do have jobs are underemployed. Meaning maybe they've taken a job that's not in their usual field, and are making a lot less money than before. Whatever the reason, there's a lot of Mainers who are struggling.

Pam Newcomb of Newport has decided to do something about it in here town, according to Fox ABC Maine. Outside her home, Pam has put up what she describes as a 'giving line'. From this makeshift clothesline in her yard, Pam has strung up all kinds of clothes, hats, mittens, and gloves that people can come help themselves to.

I thought there was a need in the area. I had some hats and mittens and scarves that I had made. When I decided to do this, I contacted some friends and neighbors, and they’ve all contributed and helped.

It didn't take long before others noticed and helped out as well. Pam says people take sometimes a few dozen items a day from here line, while others stop by and actually hang more things on the tree, which Pam thinks is awesome. She intends to keep the line up all winter long for folks in need.

If you would like top contribute, or if you yourself are in need and in the Newport area, the 'Giving Line' is located at 17 High Street in Newport.