BUCKSPORT — When breast cancer claimed the life of one of their friends, Ellen Russell and Janet Bertucci wanted to honor her memory in a cheerful way.

As they considered their options, they inventoried what they had for supplies and skills.

“We had fabric and we both knew how to sew,” said Russell. “Plus, we knew someone who had a wine shop.”

So in the fall of 2010 Maine Made Wine Wraps was born. The fabric gift bags, as the name suggests, are designed to hold a bottle of wine. They are sold in local grocery and wine stores.

As word about the project spread, the number of people making the wraps grew and so did the list of stores selling the product.

In the first year, the project raised more than $5,400. That money went to the Susan G. Komen Maine Affiliate Race for the Cure in memory of the women’s friend, Cristy Sullivan Warstler.

This year, proceeds from the sale of wine wraps will go to the Cancer Support Center of Maine in Bucksport. Russell became acquainted with the center when she attended its annual barbecue in Orland last year.

“She liked us and liked our mission,” said Barb Vittum, executive director of the Cancer Support Center, referring to Russell.

Vittum said more than $4,000 has been raised for her organization since last October.

For more community news, pick up a copy of The Ellsworth American.