ROCKLAND — The sounds and smells of summer were in the air outside of Café Miranda on June 7 as Hannaford once again partnered with Chef Kerry Altiero’s restaurant and area businesses to support homeless families and at-risk youth in the community.

Those attending the event indulged in a variety of treats including oven-fired pizza, stir fry, baked mac and cheese, and tacos prepared by Café Miranda chefs; cheese and fruit platters donated by Hannaford Supermarkets; and locally-crafted beer and wine.

Thanks to the generosity of Hannaford Supermarkets and sponsorships from more than 15 local businesses and 50 volunteers, proceeds from the food and beverage sales at the second annual Flock Party, as well as community donations, raised more than $30,000 to support the efforts of the Knox County Homeless Coalition — which has helped sustainably house more than 800 formerly homeless individuals since 2014.

“What an amazing job securing sponsorships to match our donation, which will contribute greatly to ending the cycles of homelessness and poverty in the Midcoast,” said Maile Buker, vice president of marketing for Hannaford Supermarkets. “We loved being involved again this year, wholeheartedly support the work that KCHC does, and are thrilled to be a part of the ‘solution.’  Café Miranda is the pulse of a community that cares, Chef Kerry is the heartbeat, and KCHC gets it done. Thank you for all that you do!” 

Other sponsors of this year’s event include Fisher Engineering, The Holloways, Mt. Pleasant Dental Care, Bar Harbor Bank and Trust, Down East Magazine, The Grasshopper Shop, Allen Insurance and Financial, Fiore Artisan Olive Oils & Vinegars, Thresher’s Brewing, Brio Promotions, Performance Food Service (PFG), Adventure Advertising, 250 Main Hotel, Midcoast Federal Credit Union, Fastenal, and The First National Bank.

About Hannaford Supermarkets
Hannaford Supermarkets, based in Scarborough, operates 181 stores in the Northeast. Stores are located in Maine, New York, Massachusetts, New Hampshire, and Vermont. Hannaford employs more than 26,000 associates. Additional information can be found at www.hannaford.com.

About Café Miranda
In 1993, Chef/Owner Kerry Altiero opened Café Miranda a restaurant that is fueled by his passion for great food, multi-culture cuisines, his Italian heritage and Rockland, Maine. The result is an edgy and intimate multi-cultural cuisine restaurant that has become habitual for residents and visitors alike, according to the news release.

Named 2019 Hospitality Chef of the Year and a Chef Partner in Hannaford Chef’s Table, Chef Kerry shares passion for food in two cookbooks: Adventures in Comfort Food, and Best Comfort Food on the Planet.

About Knox County Homeless Coalition
Knox County Homeless Coalition is the only dedicated homeless services organization with outreach throughout Knox, Waldo and parts of northern Lincoln County— helping families achieve sustainable independence and a hopeful future. Their client-focused approach begins with building trusting relationships, identifies and builds on an individual’s strengths and simultaneously works to break down barriers to independence. KCHC is committed to delivering all services with respect, dignity and genuine caring. They also innovate around systemic change to solve root causes of homelessness in the Midcoast through collaboration.

KCHC’s success rate of sustainability, for clients who remain engaged in the full program is 92%.

Programs include: Hospitality House Family Shelter; comprehensive case management; The Landing Place—a comprehensive youth program for high-risk youth; transportation; emergency services and supply store; and outbound food distribution and pantry.