Maine Winter Romp supports Waterville-area Habitat

The Maine Winter Romp — an annual gathering of Land Rover owners near Benton hosted by Bruce Fowler, which serves as a Waterville Area Habitat for Humanity fundraiser — was held Feb. 13 and 14, and Feb. 20 and 21.

Habitat’s volunteers work in the warming hut, where they serve hot and cold food, snacks and drinks. The off-roaders can make donations to the nonprofit.

“We are fortunate that this group chooses to support us while enjoying their passion at the same time,” said Peter Phair, executive director of the nonprofit, in a Habitat press release. “With COVID being a factor this year, the majority of off-roaders chose to stay home but others came from as far away as Georgia. One group drove here from Buffalo, New York, rode the trails for a couple of hours and then headed back to Buffalo. That’s dedication to the sport and annual event. We received online donations from folks who could not attend this year’s romp.”

Karin Warren, president of the nonprofit’s Board of Directors, volunteered at the 2021 Winter Romp and dished out her special chili. “We had great weather, and everyone was very respectful of the CDC guidelines,” she said. “Bruce did a fantastic job of building the warming hut for WAHFH, which made the concessions so much easier to serve.”

Established in 2001, Waterville Area Habitat for Humanity is a locally-managed affiliate of Habitat for Humanity International. Its goal is to enhance the community by helping qualified families to become independent owners of decent, affordable homes. The nonprofit serves the communities of Albion, Belgrade, Benton, China, Clinton, Fairfield, Oakland, Rome, Smithfield, Unity, Vassalboro, Waterville and Winslow.

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