Don credits the example of strong work ethic and deep faith set by his Franco-American parents and grandparents as the impactful foundation for his life.
Determined to become responsible for himself after a two year college degree, he left his comfort zone and headed to Providence Rhode Island. After attempting an acting career in New York City, he landed a job at the phone company where he retired after 20+ years. His time there included telecommunications work supporting high level visits involving the White House and Secret Service.
Upon his return to Biddeford, he literally stumbled upon the Food Pantry in search of a way to make a meaningful contribution. Over 20 years later, he continues to play a leadership role there to address food insecurity.
French was his first language, a skill he is proud of despite being surrounded by some who were embarrassed by it. He was honored to be named in 2024 to Maine’s Franco-American Hall of Fame.
DONALD BISSON
INTERVIEW DETAILS
Date of Interview: May 13, 2024
Location: Bisson residence, Biddeford, Maine
Interviewer: Nicole Morin-Scribner
Transcriber: Nicole Morin-Scribner
SELECTED INTERVIEW HIGHLIGHTS
- Growing up surrounded by his many relatives from a large French-Canadian family
- Seeing his grandparents and parents working hard at several factory jobs including the Pepperell, the Tannery and shoe shops.
- Experience of St. Louis High School closing his junior year and having to go to Biddeford High.
- “Leaving the nest” and transitioning to life in Providence, Rhode Island and then New York City
- Interesting story about why he left the restaurant where he was working in New York City and ended up with a career at the telephone company
- Pros and cons of living in New York City, why he left and why he chose to return to Biddeford
- The Food Pantry: from a volunteer “walk in” to dealing with the IRS and eventually becoming its Director
- How a miracle donation arrived just in time to save the program
- What the community should know about the Food Pantry and how best to meet increasing needs
- The message he shares with everyone: “Be community focused. God asked us to love our neighbors as ourselves. Love God first, that’s easy. Loving your neighbor is not always that easy. But that’s what we are told to do.”
DEMOGRAPHICS
Birthplace: Biddeford, Maine
Education: St. Andre’s, St. Louis High School and Biddeford High School; Southern Maine Vocational Technical Institute-Culinary Arts; American Academy of Dramatic Arts, New York City
Ethnic Identification: Franco-American