Local Teen’s “Hot Cocoa for a Cause” Raises Over $600 for Brewer Food Pantry

On Saturday, November 15, D-Max hosted “Hot Cocoa for a Cause” at Tiller & Rye in Brewer, complete with toppings, warm smiles, and handwritten thank-you notes. Community members stopped by steadily throughout the day, donating generously to support the Brewer Food Pantry.
The event raised over $500 on the day of, and an additional $100 donation arrived two weeks later, bringing the current total to more than $600 for families in need this winter.
When D-Max delivered the donation to the Brewer Food Pantry, he shared:
“It felt so good to bring the money to the Brewer Food Pantry and know I was helping.”
Continuing a Legacy of Youth Leadership
D-Max has raised thousands of dollars through previous fundraisers, including lemonade stands, cereal drives, and apple cider pop-ups. His commitment to service has earned him recognition as a Little League Community Hero and United Way of Eastern Maine’s Volunteer of the Year.
This latest initiative supports one of Brewer’s most essential resources at a time when shelves are harder to keep stocked.
Social Buzz & Community Response
The original event announcement generated strong engagement, being shared 22 times within the first seven hours. Photos and gratitude posts continue to circulate as community members celebrate D-Max’s leadership.

About Dorian “D-Max” Maxwell
Dorian “D-Max” Maxwell is a 13-year-old student, athlete, published author, and community fundraiser. He co-authored D-Max’s Birthday Wish, a children’s book that inspires kindness and leadership. Since age seven, he has organized fundraisers for food pantries, youth sports programs, and local nonprofits—raising thousands of dollars and inspiring youth and adults alike.
About Tiller & Rye
Tiller & Rye is a locally owned grocery store in Brewer, Maine, dedicated to supporting community health through local food partnerships, sustainable values, and community-driven initiatives.