Skowhegan neighbors raise $10K for local animal shelter, dedicating fundraiser to neighbor’s late wife

SKOWHEGAN, Maine (WABI) -Two neighbors from Skowhegan raised thousands of dollars for a local animal shelter through online selling. They say the journey to raise the money is dedicated to a very special someone and their love for animals.

A pair of avid animal lovers from Skowhegan, Carl Ronco and his late wife Roberta, made many purchases through the years.

“When we were traveling, she always found something that she wanted. So consequently, over the years we had quite a collection of her glassware and many other items,” said Ronco.

When Roberta passed away in November of 2024, Carl was unsure of what to do with his wife’s possessions. That’s when Victoria Masia, Carl’s neighbor, stepped in to help.

“Carl was trying to figure out what to do with all the stuff that they’ve accumulated through the years, and I suggested, ‘why don’t I sell them for you?’ And he thought that was a great idea, and he said, ‘you know what? I can put the proceeds towards the Somerset Animal Shelter,’” said Masia.

Since January of 2025, the two raised $10,000 for the Somerset Humane Society in Skowhegan, an animal shelter that serves 28 towns in the Somerset and Piscataquis region.

“Carl comes in often and brings us donations of dog food and other supplies for the animals here, so we’ve grown quite fond of seeing him regularly, so he’s been supporting us for quite a while. We feel supported and wonderful because this place is small, and a lot of people tell us they don’t even know that we’re here,” said Bonnie Brooks, Executive Director of Somerset Humane Society.

“My goal is, why not another 10,000?” said Ronco.

During this time, Masia had also started her own small business. Proceeds from Grammie’s Boutique will continue to support the shelter. Masia said her journey in helping a neighbor had inspired her directly. She dedicates Grammie’s Boutique in memory of Roberta Ronco.

" I only knew Birdie for about three years. I got to know her more in death than I did in life by seeing all of her clothing, and the jewelry she wore. It’s a journey, and I’m so grateful that Carl allowed me to be part of this," said Masia.

‘I know loving animals like she does, she would be smiling," said Ronco.

Those from the Somerset Humane Society say the money will help to go toward new building space in the future.