DOVER-FOXCROFT - The annual Penquis region March for Babies event for the March of Dimes Birth Defects Foundation is scheduled this year for Sunday, May 4. This 3-mile walk has been held locally every year since 1975 and is one of two dozen planned throughout Maine to raise funds for March of Dimes' programs that save babies from birth defects, pre-term labor and low birthweight.
The walk is held in Dover-Foxcroft, and begins and ends at Mayo Regional Hospital's Resource Center, on Dwelley Avenue behind the hospital. The event is sponsored by Plum Creek and Mayo.
The walk starts at 1 p.m. and follows a loop down Main, Essex, Lincoln, North and Park streets, and through Kiwanis Park to Mayo. Refreshments are served and prizes are awarded at the finish, at around 2 p.m.
Last year 75 walkers participated and the event raised a record total of $13,558 to help the March of Dimes. Walking teams represented Bangor Savings Bank, Mayo Regional Hospital, Maine Highlands Federal Credit Union, Skowhegan Savings Bank, the Dexter Regional High School Key Club, Piscataquis Community High School Key Club, Dexter Family Practice and others.
People interested in participating in March for Babies on May 4 are encouraged to register at www.marchforbabies.org or contact the March of Dimes at 1-800-287-6346.