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A Message From Lisa Charleson
According to a Social Impact Study by Habitat for Humanity East Bay/Silicon Valley:
- 73% of Habitat homeowners were able to grow their savings.
- 87% of Habitat kids graduated from high school.
- 98% of homeowners feel proud of where they live.
- 70% saw improvements in health issues such as asthma, allergies, or mobility limitations.
- 99% of homeowners say they now reduce, reuse, and recycle.
These numbers speak for themselves: safe, stable, affordable housing changes lives.
Homeownership has had a profound impact on my own life. Having a place to call my own grounds me, gives me stability, and provides a foundation for my long‑term financial future. That sense of security is something everyone deserves, and far too many people in Maine are struggling to find.
Maine is currently facing a severe housing shortage. According to Maine Public, the state will need 84,000 additional housing units over the next four years, and the median home price has climbed to $395,000. Home prices have far outpaced income growth, and Maine has one of the highest percentages of homes owned by out‑of‑state residents. Inventory is tight, and opportunities for families hoping to build a stable future are limited.
This is why Habitat for Humanity’s mission matters so deeply. Their work, providing affordable home repairs and making homeownership attainable for low‑income families, directly addresses the heart of Maine’s housing challenge. When communities come together to support one another, they become stronger, more resilient, and more hopeful.
Maine’s state motto, Dirigo, means “I lead.” And in my experience, Mainers are some of the most caring, capable, and resourceful people anywhere. If any state can lead the way in creating affordable housing solutions, it’s ours.
By supporting Habitat for Humanity, we’re not just building homes; we are building stability, health, opportunity, and pride. Together, we can help ensure more Maine families have a safe place to grow, thrive, and call home.
In Support of Habitat for Humanity of Greater Portland
Habitat for Humanity of Greater Portland partners with low-income families to provide them safe, affordable, and decent housing. This is accomplished through two primary programs. In the homeownership program, families earn a low-interest mortgage as we build them new homes from the ground up using volunteer labor. Our Critical Home Repair program provides affordable home repairs to make the client's home warmer, safe, or drier.
YOUR GIFT MATTERS
$54
What it costs for a family to spend one night in their new or newly repaired home.
MAKE A DIFFERENCE