Portland Fishermen Relief Fund Nears $200K Goal After Wharf Fire Devastation

January 19, 2026
Portland Fishermen Relief Fund Nears $200K Goal After Wharf Fire Devastation
  • Proceeds from the concert, plus other contributions, have pushed total public and business donations past $183,000.

  • A relief fund established by the Maine Coast Fishermen’s Association has raised $130,000 to support Portland fishermen affected by the fire at Custom House Wharf, as part of a broader community response.

  • Funds will be distributed in collaboration with fishermen to determine the most effective relief, with the association’s director confirming this approach.

  • An 85-year-old fisherman described devastating losses, including 33 years of gear and his shop, illustrating the personal impact of the disaster.

  • The relief fund’s leadership emphasizes collaboration with fishermen to guide distribution of aid.

  • The fund was organized in the days after the fire and aims to help families recover while preserving Portland’s working waterfront.

  • A benefit concert organized by the Don Campbell Band featured local musicians, including 12/OC and American Idol finalist Julie Gagnon, to raise funds.

  • Local neighbors and businesses, along with statements from Ben Martens and Steve Train, underscore a collective, emotionally charged community effort.

  • All performers donated their time to support the fundraising effort.

  • Officials stress that rebuilding involves solidarity within the coastal fishing community, beyond material losses.

  • Hannaford Supermarkets contributed $56,000 in direct funds and $6,000 in gift cards, plus food, totaling $62,000, with overall community giving aided by more than 700 donors and a $50,000 corporate contribution.

  • organizers say they are close to a $200,000 goal and plan to continue distributing aid directly to affected fishermen.

Summary based on 3 sources


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