Processing Your Payment

Please do not leave this page until complete. This can take a few moments.

Updated: 2 hours ago

Renovations underway at Portland’s Hope House

Hope Act's building. Photo / Courtesy Hope Acts Hope Acts provides a number of services for new Mainers and asylum-seekers.
By Tina Fischer

A Portland nonprofit providing asylum seekers with temporary housing and transitional services, has begun a $2.6 million renovation of its historic Hope House at 14 Sherman St. 

The 120-year-old building will undergo major upgrades including new kitchens and bathrooms, updated HVAC, a modern fire suppression system, improved lighting and security and rejuvenated outdoor space.

The ground floor is being redesigned to provide flexible, welcoming space that better accommodates client meetings, classes and essential services, which include English language classes, employment counseling, and housing education, assistance, placement and support.

The Beacon of Hope capital campaign has already raised 90% of its goal through gifts from individuals, businesses and other funders. 

Federal Home Loan Bank of Boston sponsored by Bangor Savings Bank and the Federal Home Loan Bank of New York, sponsored by M&T Bank, are major funders. 

Additional financing is provided by the Elmina B. Sewall Foundation and the Genesis Loan Fund. Over 100 individual donors, businesses and foundations have also contributed to the campaign.

“This strong show of support comes at a very difficult and frightening time for immigrants,” said Martha Stein, executive director of Hope Acts. “Donors are standing up for the values of welcome and belonging, often honoring their own family’s immigrant history with a gift.”

The organization is reaching out to the community to raise the remaining $250,000 needed to complete the renovations. 

The renovation team includes three Portland-based firms: LB Development Partners, Dexterous Creative Architects and Hardypond Construction. The project is targeted for completion by spring 2026.

Sign up for Enews

Mainebiz web partners

Most Recent

Most Recent

Related Content

Thumbnail Portland nonprofit Hope Acts responds to need for services for New Mainers, asylum-seekers

0 Comments

Order a PDF