|
Dear Friends, I’m delighted to share exciting progress in Youth and Family Outreach’s expansion project. Through the advocacy and sponsorship of Senator Angus King, YFO has been awarded a $500,000 federal earmark to support the construction of our new childcare and affordable housing development on Cumberland Avenue. This investment reflects strong confidence — at the federal level — in both the model and the impact this project will bring to Portland families. Because of this award, the campaign has received a much-needed boost. We now have $1.5 million remaining to raise to fully fund the project. We are also excited to share that progress on site will soon become visible:
• Demolition of the chapel and adjacent building will begin in the next few weeks Support from our community helped make this moment possible. The enthusiasm we have seen from donors, partners, and neighbors has been extraordinary, reinforcing what we have always believed — this is not simply a building project; it is community infrastructure. Today, housing costs continue to rise, childcare availability is severely limited, and financial instability is pervasive. In some cases, families are also experiencing fear and uncertainty about whether they will be welcomed and safe in the very places they call home. Throughout these challenges, YFO has stood firm in its commitment to serve and protect every family that walks through its doors. Community support is needed now more than ever — and that reality underscores the project's urgency. When families can live near safe, reliable childcare, parents can work, children arrive at school ready to learn, employers retain staff, and neighborhoods become more stable. Supporting young children and families is not only compassionate — it is preventative. It reduces crisis services, strengthens workforce participation, and builds long-term educational success. In short, when families succeed, the whole community benefits. As we enter this final phase, we hope you will consider helping us reach the finish line. If you are able to extend your own support, it would be deeply meaningful. Just as valuable would be an introduction to a friend, colleague, or organization that may care about strengthening families, workforce stability, or housing access in our community. Personal connections have always been at the heart of this campaign, and they are often what make the difference at this stage. We are deeply grateful for your partnership and belief in this vision, and we would welcome a conversation about how you might help us complete this last $1.5M. With deep appreciation, Camelia Babson-Haley
|
