ROCKLAND — On Friday, Sept. 25, Sierra Dietz of the Grasshopper Shop, presented a check to the Area Interfaith Outreach (AIO) Food Pantry and Fuel Assistance Program for $457, representing sales of special balloons containing a variety of prizes, gift certificates, and discounts. All proceeds from the balloon sales will go directly to AIO’s Weekend Meal Program, according to Grasshopper Shop, in a news release. 

AIO launched the Weekend Meal Program in 2015 (formerly known as the Backpack Program), to provide nutritious food to children and families on weekends when school meals aren’t available. On average 340 school-age children and their families participate in the program.

The balloon fundraiser was held in conjunction with the Grasshopper Shop‘s 45th anniversary sale, September 18-20, and AIO’s 30th anniversary this year. 

Dietz believes that it is especially important to aid the local community during these difficult times.

“Over the last 45 years, our family business has worked hard to support many nonprofits in the Midcoast as we feel it is a critical part of our mission,” said Dietz. “This year marks the 30th anniversary of AIO so it seemed a fitting time to incorporate their work into our anniversary celebration.”

Founded in 1975, the Grasshopper Shop of Rockland is a family-run business, now in its second generation. Over the decades, there have been Grasshopper Shop locations in Belfast, Camden, Bangor, Ellsworth, Searsport, Stonington and Bar Harbor, all owned and operated by family members. The other location still in operation is the Grasshopper Shop of Searsport, located at 27 East Main Street.

The Rockland Grasshopper Shop opened at 400 Main Street in 1997 and has been a staple of the downtown shopping scene ever since.

According to the Shop, Dietz takes pride in keeping her parents’ dream of a family-oriented, entertaining shopping experience going. She stocks items that comfort, charm and surprise, many made locally in Maine or in the USA.

“Everything on the shelves is hand-selected to make life a little brighter and more joyful, and the wonderful staff are always eager to answer questions and help shoppers find what they’re looking for,” said the Shop.

Connect with the Grasshopper Shop by calling (207) 596-6156 or by visiting grasshoppershopofrockland.com.

To learn more about AIO and to donate online, please visit aiofoodpantry.org.