Avesta Housing received a land donation from the Boys & Girls Clubs of Southern Maine to develop up to 30 homes.
The land on Cedar Street, in Portland’s Bayside neighborhood, sits behind the Boys & Girls Clubs of Southern Maine’s building at 277 Cumberland Ave.
“Part of our responsibility as long-time stewards in our community is to do what we can to not only support our youth but also make sure we contribute to the viability of our community,” said Colleen Cooper, the club’s CEO. “Housing is an issue many of our members and their families face, and we are proud to partner with Avesta in a collaborative effort to strengthen our community.”
“This collaboration allows us to increase the availability of much-needed affordable housing in Portland while supporting a critical community resource for youth development,” said Jennifer Hawkins, Avesta’s president and CEO.
Club expansion
The donation comes as the club continues to advance its proposal to expand its Cumberland Avenue location as part of a Greater Portland Youth Campus.
The proposal includes renovations to the existing site for expanded and modern program space for elementary and middle school children; plus development of a 13,000-square-foot addition for teens, called the James and Hilla Bruni Bridge to Success Center, to house a virtual reality career exploration lab and three bays for hands-on trades training. The project would double its capacity to 500 youth.
“Our vision is to equip the next generation with the tools they need to lead, inspire and succeed,” said Cooper.
The project is in the planning and approvals phase, with construction anticipated to begin in the spring.
In November, the club received a lead gift of $2.5 million toward the estimated cost of around $15 million for the renovation and expansion.
Boys & Girls Clubs of Southern Maine has been in the Portland community for over a century, with programs spanning academics, technology, the arts, physical activity and leadership development.