Augusta-based foundation awards $80K to help with housing needs

AUGUSTA — The Maine Association of REALTORS Foundation, the charitable arm of Maine Association of REALTORS, has awarded $80,000 through its 2023 Competitive Grant Program to 11 organizations to address a variety of housing needs across Maine.

The grants offer nonprofit organizations assistance in helping Maine’s most vulnerable households with providing meaningful housing solutions, according to a news release from Cynthia Fabbricatore, program manager.

The following organizations each received a $10,000 grant:

1. MidCoast Habitat for Humanity in Rockport will use its funds to expand the operation of their Diversion Program and provide financial assistance to Hancock County individuals and families at risk of homelessness before they enter the shelter system.

2. Community Care in Bangor will use its funds to provide security deposits, first months’ rent, and rental assistance to 20 youths experiencing homelessness.

3. Rural Community Action Ministry in Leeds will use its funds to support its homeless prevention activities, including providing financial counseling and housing repairs/modifications for 75-100 people.

4. Habitat for Humanity of Greater Bangor will use its funds to support building a new home in Penobscot County.

5. Through These Doors in Portland will use its funds to support some of its operating costs (electric, water, storm water, natural gas, telephone, fire, cleaning) for a shelter expansion for survivors of domestic violence.

The following organizations each received a $5,000 grant:

6. CHiP, Inc. in Newcastle will use its funds to provide heating assistance to income-eligible households

7. A House for ME in Kittery will use its funds to support the offset of rent and utilities expenses for three residents.

8. Safe Voices in Auburn will use its funds to cover a portion of housing navigator expenses and also provide utility and security deposit assistance for 30-40 families.

9. Habitat for Humanity 7 Rivers Maine in Topsham will use its funds to support their Home Repair Program, which includes purchasing materials and covering job site costs for four to six families.

10. Mission at the Eastward in Farmington will use its funds to support their purchase of building supplies to make home repairs for very low-income families.

11. New Beginnings in Lewiston will use its funds to support providing rent assistance and covering management staff costs associated with helping homeless youth navigate/transition from homelessness to stable housing.