BIDDEFORD — On Feb. 11, more than 100 representatives from Maine’s credit unions were joined by Sue Mitchell, who was portrayed in the the award-winning movie, “The Blind Side,” by Oscar-winner Kathy Bates, in announcing that the 2013 Maine Credit Unions’ Campaign for Ending Hunger raised a record-setting $513,309.

This represents an increase of more than $42,000 over 2012’s record-setting total. The announcement was made at a special ceremony held at The Marriott in South Portland.  

Mitchell tutored Michael Oher ”“ which is portrayed in the film ”“ from a .6 GPA to a 2.05 in high school, and finally to a 3.75 dean’s list student in college. Today, Oher is a standout tackle for the NFL’s Baltimore Ravens, the 2013 Superbowl champions.

In her remarks, Mitchell stressed the importance of “helping others, whether it is tutoring or making sure someone has enough to eat. What Maine’s credit unions are doing in helping to end hunger is remarkable. I can’t imagine not having enough food to eat, but throughout the country, and I have learned throughout the state, far too many people struggle with hunger every day.

“You are making a difference, and the people of Maine are better off because of the work and passion you are doing on behalf of hunger.”

In addition to setting a single-year, fundraising record, the campaign topped the $5 million mark in funds raised since the campaign began in 1990, with $5.3 million having been raised in the campaign’s 24-year history.

One hundred percent of all funds raised stay in Maine and go directly to hunger relief efforts.