BELGRADE — Following the tragic fire and explosion in Searsmont, Hammond Lumber Company (Hammond) is announcing a $100,000 donation to support the victims and families impacted by the fire and subsequent explosion at Robbins Lumber, in Searsmont. The contribution will be made directly to the Maine Strong Memorial Foundation to help provide financial assistance, resources, and ongoing support to those affected.

"Robbins Lumber, a longtime valued supplier partner of Hammond Lumber Company, has deep roots in the state, and this tragedy has been deeply felt across Maine’s lumber industry," said Hammond, in a news release.

“As a Maine company, our communities are like family to us, and tragedies like this are felt deeply by all of us,” said Mike Hammond, president and CEO of Hammond Lumber Company. “Robbins Lumber has been a valued partner of ours for many years, and from one family business to another, our hearts are with everyone impacted by this tragedy. We are keeping the victims, their families, employees, first responders, and the entire community in our thoughts. On behalf of our company and employees, we hope this donation helps provide comfort, resources, and meaningful support to the individuals and families affected as they navigate the difficult road ahead.” 

Hammond’s donation to the Maine Strong Memorial Foundation will provide direct financial support to the individuals injured in the tragedy and the families of those who lost their lives. The Maine Strong Memorial Foundation has launched a dedicated relief campaign to support those most directly impacted by the fire and explosion. According to the news release, the organization is working closely with the Town of Searsmont and official community representatives to help ensure that 100% of donations are distributed directly to confirmed victims and their immediate families. Funds raised will help assist with medical expenses, recovery and rehabilitation needs, funeral costs, lost income, and other unforeseen hardships families may face in the weeks and months ahead. 

"Hammond Lumber Company believes strongly in supporting its communities during times of hardship and recognizes the importance of standing together in moments like these," said Hammond.

The donation to the Maine Strong Memorial Foundation will assist efforts focused on recovery, support services, and helping those directly affected move forward.

"Hammond will continue to assist where possible and stand alongside those affected in the days and months ahead," said the company. "Hammond also extends its deepest gratitude to the fire departments whose courage, professionalism, and rapid response were critical during this tragedy, along with the emergency responders, medical personnel, law enforcement officers, and community members who demonstrated extraordinary compassion, strength, and dedication in the face of an incredibly difficult situation."

About Hammond Lumber Company

Hammond Lumber Company was founded in 1953 by Skip and Verna Hammond with a single sawmill in Belgrade, Maine. Today, the fourth-generation, family-owned company is one of the largest independent lumber and building material retailers in the northeast with over 1,200 employees and 34 locations across Maine and New Hampshire. Hammond Lumber Company carries a full line of building materials, windows and doors, kitchen, bath and flooring products, and is a quality manufacturer of eastern white pine. Hammond has multiple Kitchen, Bath & Flooring Design Centers and showrooms, Home Planning Design Centers, and window and door showrooms across the State. Hammond is the 12 th largest pro dealer and lumberyard in the nation by 2025 sales according to the LBM Journal 100. The building material supply company has received numerous awards, including 2020 ProSales Dealer of the Year, Best Places to Work in Maine in 2021, 2022, 2023, 2024, and 2025 Best Companies to Work For in New Hampshire in 2023, 2024, and 2025, National Safety Council's 2025 Occupational Excellence Achievement Award and 2025 Industry Leader Award, and NeLMA’s 2025 Outstanding Safety Performance Award. Learn more at www.hammondlumber.com.

About Maine Strong Memorial Foundation

The Maine Strong Memorial Foundation is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization dedicated to providing temporary financial relief to Maine families impacted by unexpected tragedy, including medical emergencies, accidents, sudden loss, and other life-altering hardships. Through emergency fundraising campaigns, annual events, donation matching efforts, and community partnerships, the Foundation works to provide immediate support during some of life’s most difficult moments. Guided by a mission of compassion, community, and resilience, the Maine Strong Memorial Foundation remains committed to helping Maine families navigate challenges while honoring the strength and spirit that continue to bring communities together. Learn more at http://www.mainestrongfoundation.org/.