Damariscotta Hardware and Randolph Hardware presented a $10,000 donation to the Maine Strong Foundation following a successful Register Round-Up campaign supporting those affected by the May 15 fire and explosion at Robbins Lumber in Searsmont, Maine. The campaign invited customers to round up their purchases at checkout, with donations matched by store co-owner Rob Gardiner.

The fundraiser was launched in response to the devastating explosion at Robbins Lumber, which claimed the lives of Morrill firefighter Andrew Cross, Searsmont Assistant Fire Chief Wayne Woodbury and Alden Robbins, co-owner and vice president of sales at Robbins Lumber, who died July 2 from injuries sustained in the incident. The explosion also seriously injured numerous firefighters, first responders, Robbins Lumber employees and members of the Robbins family, leaving a lasting impact on communities across Maine and the state’s independent lumber and hardware industry.

“When we launched this campaign, we knew our customers would want to help,” said Rob Gardiner, co-owner of Damariscotta Hardware and Randolph Hardware. “Their response was truly inspiring. Together, we were able to show our support for the Robbins family, the families of those who lost their lives, the injured first responders, and everyone whose lives have been forever changed by this tragedy.

“The recovery continues long after the headlines fade,” Gardiner said. “We’re grateful to every customer who rounded up their purchase and helped make this donation possible. It’s another reminder of how Maine communities come together to support one another during life’s most difficult moments.”

Damariscotta Hardware, located at 423 Main Street in Damariscotta, and Randolph Hardware, located at 244 Water Street in Randolph, are locally owned Do it Best Group member stores serving homeowners, contractors, and communities throughout Midcoast and central Maine.

About Damariscotta Hardware

Damariscotta Hardware is a family-owned and operated Do it Best hardware store located in Damariscotta, Maine. Founded in 1955, the store has proudly served Midcoast Maine for 70 years with quality products, knowledgeable service, and a strong commitment to community values. Now led by second-generation owners Rob and Susan Geyer, Damariscotta Hardware offers more than 90,000 items, including tools, paint, heating stoves, garden supplies, and equipment rentals, while continuing to support both contractors and DIYers with trusted advice and friendly service. Proud to be part of the Do it Best cooperative, Damariscotta Hardware remains dedicated to helping customers get the job done right. For more information, visit the website or follow the store on Facebook.