A grant from MTI
helped us improve our
product and scale ourbusiness. Our businessgrowth means job security
and higher wages for our
employees.
Beth Weisberger, Owner
Gneiss SpiceCreating the Future in Maine
Maine Technology Institute (MTI) helps Mainers build innovativeand high-growth businesses. With MTI’s support, companies
start and grow, quality jobs are created in Maine, andrevenues increase. From an initial idea to taking a company
public, MTI supports and invests in Maine entrepreneurs.

Do you have a vision for an
innovative business, product or process?
Learn more about our funding programs at
www.MaineTechnology.org

Acknowledgements
I carried forward the vision of this Guide because of my gratitude
to people who come here from all over the world.  Because of
you Maine has become global in scope.  Because of this myfamily can truly call it home, just as it will become so for you.  This
Guide was created to welcome you.  It exists because all of us
believe in the work that we do.  Thank you to our incredible teamof volunteers and staff:  
••••Ellis Linsmith | Research
Melissa Genthner | Graphic Design
Judy Carl | Editing
Celeste Carpenter  | AmeriCorps-VISTA, Greater
Portland Immigrant Welcome Center

Our team of reviewers:• Daniyah Kazadi | Greater Portland Immigrant Welcome Center• Deb Breiting | Co-Owner and Trainer, Maine Intercultural
Communication Consultants• Denise Beck | Director of Marketing, METRO (Greater
Portland Transit District)• Derek Morin | Contact Center Manager, 2-1-1• Dr. Deb Rothenberg | Greater Portland Immigrant Welcome
Center Board Member• Liz Greason | Co-Owner and Principal Consultant, Maine
Intercultural Communication Consultants• Marpheen Chann | Greater Portland Immigrant Welcome
Center Board Member• Martha Stein | Executive Director, Hope Acts
• Nancy Kamaliza | Greater Portland Immigrant Welcome
Center• Sally Sutton | Program Coordinator, New Mainers Resource
Center• Sarah Campbell | Executive Director, Portland Public Library• Shima Kabirigi | Greater Portland Immigrant Welcome Center
Board Secretary• Tarlan Ahamdov | State Refugee Coordinator, Office of Maine
Refugee Services, Catholic Charities Maine• Virginia French | Greater Portland Immigrant Welcome Center
Board Chair• Williams Bandoma | Business & Government Librarian,Portland Public Library
Our other contributors:• Nancy Valmond, Williston-Emmanuel Baptist Church Intern• Paul Nakuo, Volunteer, Greater
Portland Immigrant Welcome Center2

Thank you to the team of the “New Bostonians Guide to Boston”,
Prof. Lisa Rosowsky and all the students who worked on the
project in Graphic Design Print Production at Massachusetts
College of Art and Design in 2010, for inspiring and guiding ourwork by sharing theirs with us.
Finally, thank you to my children Wesley and Bernard for “coming
to work” with me while I supervised the project and to Greater
Portland Immigrant Welcome Center for being such an open andwelcoming place.
-Marin Magat | Content & Project Supervisor

Do you have an organization that serves New Mainers in the
Greater Portland area which is not listed in this guide?
Contact us at info@welcomeimmigrant.org and we can see about
including you in future editions of the guide.

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Learn more about what AAA has to offerand submit your resume today!

Apply online atAAA.com/careers
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4.75” w x 3.625”

3

TABLE OF CONTENTS
About this Guide
About Greater Portland
		 Map of Greater Portland
		 Map of Portland Peninsula
Pathways for Immigrants
		 Who are New Mainers?
		 Categories of Immigrant Status
		 Major Service Providers
		Basic Needs When You Arrive in Maine
Temporary Housing
		 Shelters
Food and Clothing
		 Free Meals
		 Food Pantries
		 Food Assistance Programs
		 Clothing
Free and Low-Cost Healthcare
		 Clinics
		 Hospitals
Transportation
		 Bus		 Bike/Walk
		 Ride Share
Settling Into The Community		Rental Housing
		 Low Income Housing
		 Tenants’ Rights
		 Furniture
Our Healthcare System
		 Dental Clinics
		 Eye Care		 Counseling and Safety Services
Health InsuranceChildren & Teens
		 Childcare
Schools
School-Based Programs
Out-of-School Time
Youth Support Programs
Adult Education
		 Learning English
		 Public Libraries

4

6
8
8
8
9
9
10
10
14-28
14
14
14
14
17
19
20
22
22
24
24
24
27
28
30-65
30
33
36
37
37
38
39
39
41
43
43
44
50
51
56
58
58
61

Immigration and Legal Support
		 Initial Immigration Process for Asylum Seekers
		 Immigration Legal Support
		 Legal Help for Non-Immigration Matters
Economic, Social and Civic Integration
Entering the Workforce
		 Employment Authorization
		 Social Security Card		 Driver’s License
Finding a Job
		 Employment Support
		 Networking
		 Worker’s Rights
		 Taxes
Career Advancement
		 Recertification
		 Higher Education Opportunities
Money and Personal Finances
		 Banking
		 Building Credit
		 Home Buying
		 Starting a Business
Civic Engagement
		 Citizenship		 VotingAppendix
Safety & Emergency
Directory of Organizations & Community Groups
		 Organizations for New Mainers
		 Community Organizations by Ethnicity
		 Religious Groups
		

64
64
64
65
66-89
66
66
69
70
71
71
72
74
76
78
78
79
80
80
83
83
85
86
88
88
90-101
90
93
93
97
98

TIP: Explain out loud.
Information passed through a human connection is more believable thananything that is written.
If you are a New Mainer, ask for help understanding this guide.
If you are a Friend of New Mainers, use this guide to inform yourself,then have a conversation with a New Mainer, listen to what he or sheneeds, then offer to help.

5Dear New Mainers,
The Greater Portland Immigrant Welcome Center and the Portland
Public Library have partnered in developing this “Welcome Guide”.
It will introduce you to services and opportunities available in Greater
Portland. We have made this guide to:• Share valuable information in a reliable way• Provide helpful resources in one place• Take and keep at home and refer to it at any time
This guide is organized in sections to help with each phase of yourintegration process.
When you Arrive in Maine, you will need to find resources to help
you meet your basic needs such as food and shelter. Once you begin
Settling In, you can focus on long term needs such as permanent
housing, healthcare plans, and developing language skills. You will
also need access to Economic, Social and Civic Integration to findemployment, opportunities to meet people, and explore ways to enjoy
the area.
IC NEEDSBAS

Arrivein Maine

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11 yearyear++We have created this guide to help you, and we are here to support yourintegration efforts at any time. Please come visit us, and explore all that
we have to offer for you and your family:
Greater Portland Immigrant Welcome Center: Call (207) 517–3401 orcome to the welcome desk at 24 Preble Street, 3rd floor in downtown
Portland.
Portland Public Library: Call (207) 871–1700 ext.725 or visit the Main
Library at 5 Monument Square in downtown Portland. Staff at thereference desk can help you with this Guide and direct you to local
resources.

Welcome to Maine.
Alain J Nahimana,
Executive Director
Greater Portland
Immigrant Welcome

6

CenterSarah Campbell,
Executive Director
Portland Public
LibraryKnow that you may experience “Stages of Integration” as you adjust to life in the
U.S. This process can take years. Don’t be surprised if a few months after arriving,
you feel overwhelmed, frustrated, or sad. It is a normal part of adjustment that will getbetter once you learn more about your new home.

New Mainers,

Dear Friends ofr you too.

This guide is fo

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7

About Greater Portland• Greater Portland is a region in southern Maine that surrounds the Cityof Portland. This guide contains information about Portland and its
direct neighbors: the City of South Portland, the City of Westbrook,and the Town of Falmouth.
• More than a third of Maine’s population live in Greater Portland, over
1/2 million people. Portland is Maine’s largest city with a population ofalmost 67,000 (2017 Census Bureau Population Estimate). Portlandis the urban and economic center of the state. Greater Portland hasa four-season climate: Cold and snowy winters, wet springs, warm
summers, and colorful autumns.
• In Greater Portland each city or town has its own local government,
post office, and library. There is a shared bus system.
• Downtown Portland is on a peninsula. This is where most services
are for New Mainers who have just arrived: General Assistance,
Portland Adult Education, the housing shelters, and many locations
for free food and clothing.
• Westbrook General Assistance
426 Bridge St, Westbrook• South Portland General Assistance& City Hall
25 Cottage Rd, S. Portland• Falmouth General Assistance &Town Hall271 Falmouth Rd, Falmouth• Westbrook Adult Education
125 Stroudwater St, Westbrook• South Portland Adult Education
637 Highland Ave, S. Portland• Greater Portland Immigrant
Welcome Center
24 Preble St, Portland• Catholic Charities
80 Sherman St, Portland• Portland General Assistance
96 Lancaster St, Portland• Portland Public Library
5 Monumnet Square, Portland• City of Portland Family Shelter
54 Chesnut St, Portland• Preble Street Resource Center
252 Oxford St, Portland• Portland Adult Education & New
Mainers Resource Center
14 Locust St, Portland• Greater Portland Transportation
Center (METRO)
21 Elm St, Portland

FALMOUTH

EAST ENDWESTBROOKWEST ENDPORTLANDSOUTH
PORTLAND

8

Pathways for Immigrants

Are you a New Mainer? If so, you are one of many who have come to
Maine from all over the world. As a New Mainer you may have comeas a Refugee, Asylum Seeker, or through another immigrant status.
Who supports you in your first months in Maine depends on this. Thissection introduces who your major service providers are and how toaccess their help.

Who are New Mainers?
The words “New Mainers” refer to people who have recently moved
to Maine from other parts of the world. Maine has a long legacyof immigrants and ethnic minorities coming to the state including
Europeans, French Canadians, Africans, Asians, Middle Easterners andJews. There are around 50,000 immigrants in Maine from all over theworld, which equals 4 percent of the total population (2017 American
Community Survey estimates).
Portland has approximately 10,000 foreign-born residents which is
15 percent of the city’s population. From 2000-2013 the number of
immigrants in Portland doubled. Currently, one-third of Portland Public
Schools students are multilingual. About 60 different languages are
spoken in students’ homes.
Some Countries of Origin of Recent New Mainers:
Afghanistan
AngolaAzerbaijan
Belgium
Bulgaria
Burkina-Faso
Burma
BurundiCameroon
Central African
Republic
Chad
Congo
Cuba
Djibouti
Egypt
Eritrea

Ethiopia
GuatemalaHonduras
Iran
Iraq
Ivory Coast
Kazakhstan
Mali
RussiaRepublic of
the Congo
RwandaSomalia
Sudan
Syria
Tanzania
Togo

UkraineUzbekistan
VietnamMany More!!

9Categories of Immigration Status
Refugee vs. Asylum Seeker
Although anyone who comes to live permanently in a foreign county is
an Immigrant, there are differences in the reasons why and how theycome. This guide focuses on Refugees and Asylum Seekers, or othersin similar situations who have minimal resources. To educate yourself on
the many other categories of immigrants, go to uscis.gov.
A Refugee is someone “fleeing conflict or persecution” from their homecountry, many of whom are “forcibly displaced from their communities orare considered stateless.” Refugees come through the United Nations
High Commission for Refugees (UNHCR), which supports and assists
refugees (UNHCR website, 2018). A refugee entering the United Statesreceives an employment authorization document which allows him/her
to work immediately. In Maine the resettlement agency for refugees is
Catholic Charities of Maine. Refugees are given many services and help
from Catholic Charities of Maine.
An Asylum Seeker is someone who is fleeing his/her country due to
conflict or persecution and is seeking asylum in another. Usually asylum
seekers arrive in the US on a visitor, student or business visa or throughborder crossing. Once in the United States, they apply for asylum throughthe US Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). Unlike refugees,
asylum seekers do not have sponsoring organizations like CatholicCharities. In Maine, asylum seekers instead rely on local governments
and non-profit organizations for basic needs in their first months of arrival.
Cities and towns’ General Assistance programs provide stipends forhousing, food, and other needs. The process of receiving asylum papers
can take between 12 months to 5 or more years. Once Asylum Seekers
get their Asylum approval, they are eligible to receive services from
Catholic Charities Maine.

Major Service Providers
For refugees, Catholic Charities Maine Refugee and Immigration
Services (RIS) will help supply your initial basic needs. For asylum
seekers you may receive basic needs by applying for General Assistance(GA). GA offers “vouchers” rather than money. Vouchers are pieces of
paper which can be exchanged for rent, food, and other non-food items.
See the box on “How to apply for General Assistance.”10

Catholic Charities; Maine Refugee and Immigration Services (RIS)80 Sherman Street, Portland | (207) 871–7437
Catholic Charities is a large organization with many programs serving
all Mainers. They run the Maine Refugee and Immigration Services(RIS), Maine’s only refugee resettlement program. RIS offers a range ofservices to refugees. RIS also helps asylees (asylum seekers who havebeen granted asylum) once they have received their asylum documents).
www.ccmaine.org/refugee-immigration-services

General Assistance (GA)GA helps residents of each city or town get basic needs such as rent,
food, medication, and other necessary things. New Mainers who are
not served by Catholic Charities apply for help here.
Each city is required to provide this service. GA law requires that ablebodied individuals participate in a municipal work program in order toreceive financial assistance. See the contact information of your city toapply.
Because General Assistance offers so many services for New Mainers,
separate sections will also be included in other parts of this Guidebook.
Portland General Assistance
196 Lancaster Street, Portland | (207) 775–7911
Hours: Mon–Wed and Fri 8am–4:30 pm; Thurs 8:00–11:30am(and 11:30am–4:30pm 2nd Thurs of every month ONLY.)
Note: Best time to apply is early morning or mid-week. Not Friday afternoon.
Westbrook General AssistanceWestbrook Community Center, 426 Bridge Street, Westbrook(207) 854–0676
Call to schedule an appointment.
South Portland General AssistanceCity Hall, 25 Cottage Road, South Portland(207) 767–7617
Call to schedule an appointment.
Falmouth General Assistance
Town Hall, 271 Falmouth Road, Falmouth(207) 699–5344
Call to schedule an appointment.

TIP: There is a time
limit for what GA
provides.
This may extend if
you complete initial
immigration paperwork.
Ask during your intake
what the rules are.

How to Apply for General Assistance:

1. Find the GA in the city or town where you reside. For example, if you arestaying in the Portland shelter go to the Portland GA.
2. Check the office hours (for Portland) or call to schedule an appointment(for South Portland, Westbrook, and Falmouth).
3. Go with enough time to wait in line and for the hour-long interview.
4. Bring the following:• Proof of identity for all members of your family (for example, passport,
immigration documents, Social Security card, etc.)• Proof of household income (money earned by anyone in your family inU.S.) if you have any.

11

Would you like a person to help you understand this Guide?
You may call or bring your questions to:
Greater Portland Immigrant Welcome Center
Call (207) 517–3401 or come to the welcome desk at 24 Preble Street
3rd Floor in downtown Portland.
Portland Public Library
Call (207) 871–1700 ext.725 or visit the Main Library at 5 Monument
Square in downtown Portland. Staff at the reference desk can help youwith this Guide and direct you to local resources.
2–1–1 Maine
Call 2–1–1 to reach a statewide directory of resources, including ones inthis Guide. You can call 2–1–1 to reach the service or dial directly: (877)463–6207 or (866) 811–5695. Or text your residential zip code to 898211 to be connected to local and statewide resources. Open 24-hours
a day. 2–1–1 has free interpreters! Tell the person who answers thephone and be prepared to wait a few minutes.

12

FIND IT ONLINE
Services are also listed online and may be more updated than
this Guide. Search:• 211Maine.com: A way to search the online version of the
2–1–1 Maine directory• Google.com: A commonly used search engine for anything

How to Translate the Guide:

You may use the online translation
service Google Translate.

13

BASIC NEEDS WHEN YOU ARRIVE IN MAINE
Basic needs are what you need to survive in your first months in
Maine: Shelter, food, and clothing. This section lists where to go
to get what you need. It also explains how to get free and low-cost
healthcare and explains local transportation options.

TEMPORARY HOUSING
Shelters
A shelter is a building set up for people without homes. This is afree place to sleep if you have nowhere else to go. You can shower
there and get other kinds of support. Many asylum seekers stay in a
shelter for a short time when they first arrive unless they have otherarrangements.
Catholic Charities; Maine Refugee and Immigration Services (RIS)80 Sherman Street, Portland | (207) 871–7437
Maine’s only refugee resettlement program offers a range of services torefugees, including temporary housing.
www.ccmaine.org/refugee-immigration-services
City of Portland Family Shelter
54 Chestnut Street, Portland | (207) 772–8339
The Portland Family Shelter is Maine’s largest shelter for families andprovides temporary housing to families with children. They house many
New Mainers including immigrants, refugees, and asylum seekers.
City of Portland Oxford Street Shelter
203 Oxford Street, Portland | (207) 761–2072
This is a shelter for people who have no place to stay.
Hope Acts; Hope House
14 Sherman Street, Portland | (207) 274–6005
Offer housing for single adult asylum seekers. 13 bedrooms in 5apartments temporarily house asylum seekers and assist in their search
for more permanent housing. Those interested in living at Hope Houseshould call, email carolyn@hopeacts.org, or stop by 14 Sherman Street
to fill out an application. Hope House also runs ASAP Program to help
asylum seekers access medical services, find housing, complete job
applications, and navigate local resources in Greater Portland. Also offer
ESL classes.
https://hopeacts.org/immigrant-support/hopehouse/hope-houseprogram/

FOOD AND CLOTHING
Free Meals
Free meals served to people who need them are often called community
meals. A Soup Kitchen is a place where these meals are served.

14

IC NEEDSBAS

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TLIN G IN“Soup Kitchen” is just an expression. Full meals are served, not justsoup – and not in a kitchen!
Preble Street Soup Kitchens Open every day, 365 days of the year
Resource Center Soup Kitchen
252 Oxford Street, Portland (207) 775–0026
Breakfast: 8–9:30am
Lunch: 11am–1pm
Dinner: 4:30–6pm
Teen Center Soup Kitchen *For teenagers only
343 Cumberland Avenue, Portland
Breakfast: 8–9am
Lunch: 12noon–1pm
Dinner: 6–7pm
Amistad Driscoll’s Diner
66 State Street, Portland (207) 773–1956
Breakfast: Mon–Fri, 9–10am
Lunch is served for $2.00 Mon–Fri, 11:30am–1pm, or
people can volunteer in exchange for a free lunch.
First Parish Unitarian Universalist Church
425 Congress Street, Portland (207) 773–5747
Dinner: First Sunday of the month at 5pm
St. Vincent de Paul Soup Kitchen
307 Congress Street, Portland (207) 772–1113
Lunch: Mon–Fri, 11am–12:30pm.

211

15

Wayside Food Programs Community Meals
Various Locations | (207) 775–4939
Free meals in safe, neighborhood settings in Portland and Westbrook,
locations vary by day. All locations are in Portland unless the nameincludes “Westbrook.”

MONDAYTUESDAYWEDNESDAY

THURSDAY

Woodfords
Congregational
Church 202
Woodford Street
Lunch 12 Noon

Avesta 409
Cumberland
AvenueLunch 12 Noon

Westbrook
Community Center
426 Bridge Street
Dinner 5pm

Hope Gateway
United Methodist
Community Center
185 High Street
Lunch 12 NoonMy Place Teen
Center 755 Main
Street, Westbrook
Dinner 5pm

Salvation Army
297 Cumberland
AvenueLunch 12 noon
Open to seniors(55+) and families
with children

East End Community
School 195 North
Street Dinner 5pm
Open to East End
Community School
students and theirfamilies (during school
year only)
Reiche Community
School 166 Brackett
Street Dinner 5pm
Open to Reiche
students and theirfamilies (during school
year only)Riverton Boys &Girls Club House 55
Riverton Drive Dinner
5pm Open to Riverton
Boys & Girls Club
students and theirfamilies (during school
year only)
Sagamore Village
Boys & Girls ClubHouse 21 Popham
Street Dinner 5pm
Open to Sagamore
Village Boys & GirlsClub students (during
school year only)

16

Salvation Army
297 Cumberland
Avenue Dinner 5pm
Open to seniors(55+) and families
with children
Westbrook Learns
at the Westbrook
Community Center
426 Bridge Street,
Westbrook Dinner
at 5pm Open toWestbrook Learns
students and theirfamilies (during
school year only)

Deering Center
Community
Church 4
Brentwood Street
Dinner 5:30pm
St. Peter’s
Episcopal Church
678 Washington
AvenueDinner 5:30pm
WillistonImmanuel United
Church 156 HighStreetDinner 5:30pm
Hope Gateway
United Methodist
Community Center
185 High Street
Dinner 5:30pm

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Food Pantries
A Food Pantry is where bags or boxes of food are offered for free topeople who need it. They are usually run by neighborhood, nonprofit, or
religious organizations. Most have rules such as being a resident: living
in a specific area. Read the rules for each Food Pantry listed below
before you go.

Portland Food Pantries
First Baptist Church Food Pantry
360 Canco Road (207) 773–3123
Wed: 11:30am–12:30pm
Rules: You can go only once a month; for Portland residents only. You
will need proof of residence or a photo ID to receive food.
Front Street Food Pantry
36 West Presumpscot Street (207) 450–3579
Fri and Sun: 11am–11:45am
Rules: You will need a photo ID; for Portland residents only.
Jewish Family Services
1342 Congress Street (207) 772–1959
Tues and Thurs by appointment: Email Karli Efron at kefron@mainejewish.org
Rules: Visitors may pick up two bags of food per month. You will needa photo ID. Families and individuals from all over Cumberland and YorkCounties are welcome.
Preble Street Resource Center
252 Oxford Street (207) 775–0026
Thurs: 1:30–3pm.
Project FEED Food Pantry
202 Woodford Street (207) 761–3920
Mon–Fri: 1–3pm.
Rules: Visitors can go once every 2 months and need a referral form
from a social service agency, church or synagogue before each visit. For
emergency use only.
For Portland, South Portland, Westbrook, Falmouth and Scarboroughresidents only.
The Root Cellar
94 Washington Avenue (207) 774–3197
Mon–Fri: 9am–12noon
Rules: For one time, emergency use only. For East End residents only.
Bring proof of residence.

17

Sacred Heart Food Pantry
80 Sherman Street (207) 773–7746
Tues:10am–11:30am
Rules: Bring a photo ID or a piece of mail with your current address.
Salvation Army Food Pantry
297 Cumberland Avenue (207) 774–4172
Mon/Wed/Fri: 1pm–3pm.
Rules: Visitors may come every 30 days. Bring a photo ID.
St. Luke’s Food Pantry; St. Luke’s Cathedral
143 State Street (207) 772–5434
Thurs: 9:30–11am
Rules: Visitors may come once a month only. Bring a photo ID. Use Park
Street entrance.
Stroudwater Food Pantry
Stroudwater Christian Church, 1520 Westbrook Street (207) 200–5985
Sun: 1–3pm
Wayside Food Programs Mobile Food Pantry
Multiple Locations (207) 775–4939• 577 Washington Avenue: 2nd Thurs of each month, 10:30am
Rules: For residents of Washington Gardens and Front Street
neighborhoods only.
• 284 Danforth Street: 3rd Wed of each month, 2pm
Rules: For residents of Harbor Terrace and the West End only.
• 21 Popham Street: 4th Tues of each month, 10am 			Rules: For residents of Sagamore Village only
Williston-Immanuel United Church
156 High Street (207) 775–2301
Most Thurs: 10am
Rules: Visitors must arrive before 10:00am to enter. Can get food andlimited financial assistance.
White Memorial Seventh Day Adventist Church
97 Allen Avenue (207) 797–4414
Thurs: 7:30am

Westbrook Food Pantries
Westbrook Food Pantry
426 Bridge Street (207) 591–8147
Tues: 12noon–2pm and 6pm–7:30pm
Rules: Application forms are available at the Pantry and online. Pleasebring a current piece of mail addressed to you or a rent receipt for each
person over 18 in the household. A drivers license is only accepted ifvery recently issued. www.westbrookfoodpantry.org

18

IC NEEDSBAS

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Vineyard Church of Greater Portland Food Pantry
715 Bridgton Road (207) 854–8339
Fri: 6–8pm
Rules: For residents of Cumberland, Falmouth, Gray, North Portland,
Westbrook, and Windham. Visitors will need to complete an income selfdeclaration form upon arrival.

South Portland Food Pantries
South Portland Food Cupboard
130 Thadeus Street (207) 874–0379
Thurs: 8:30–11am
First Wednesday of every month 5–7pm
South Portland Church of the Nazarene
51 Landry Circle, Life Essentials Community Center, Landry Village(207) 767–2127 Open once a month, call to learn when: 1:30pm–3:30pm
Free bread every Thurs: 1:30pm–3:30pmRules: For residents of South
Portland only. Bring proof of residency.
Wayside Mobile Food Pantry at Red Bank Village
84 Westbrook Street (207) 775–4939
Fourth Wednesday of every month: 2pm
Rules: For residents of the Red Bank neighborhood only.

Falmouth Food Pantry
Falmouth Food Pantry
Falmouth Town Hall at 271 Falmouth Road (207) 699–5305
First and Third Mon: 9–11am
Second, Third, and Fourth Tuesday: 9:30–11:30am
Second, Third, and Fourth Thursday: 4:30–6:30pm
Rules: For residents of Falmouth, Cumberland, Yarmouth, Portland, andWestbrook.

Food Assistance Programs
The State of Maine provides food programs for low-income people,
including New Mainers.
WIC Nutritional Program; Opportunity Alliance
190 Lancaster St, Portland (207) 553–5800 or 1 (800) 698–4959
WIC stands for Women, Infants, and Children. It is a statewide nutrition
program which offers food benefits to families with children with certain
income guidelines. Open to anyone living in Maine, including migrants
working in Maine. Applicants can be any of the following:• Women who are pregnant, breastfeeding, or had a baby in the last
six months.
• Infants and children up to the age of five, including adopted andfoster children.
• Fathers or mothers applying for their children.

19

To Apply:
1. Check online to see if you fall into the income
guidelines for this program: https://wicuat.fns.usda.
gov/wps/pages/preScreenTool.xhtml
2. Make an appointment by phone or by filling out theonline contact form: https://www.maine.gov/dhhs/
mecdc/health-equity/wic/contact.shtml
3. Prepare for the hour-long appointment. For what to bring and what
to expect go to: https://www.maine.gov/dhhs/mecdc/health-equity/
wic/Applicants/Where-do-I-apply.shtml
Maine Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP); Maine
Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS)

151 Jetport Boulevard, South Portland | (207) 822–2000 or (800) 442–6003.

Provides food assistance benefits that help low income households buy
the food they need for good health. In order to qualify for this benefit
program, you must live in the state of Maine and fall into certain income
guidelines. If you qualify, benefits start from the date you turn in yourapplication. You can receive SNAP benefits within 30 days.
To Apply:
1. Check online to see if you fall into the income
guidelines for this program: https://www.benefits.gov/
benefit/1272
2. Download and fill out an application: http://www.
maine.gov/dhhs/ofi/services/snap/index.html
3. Return the application to the Department of Healthand Human Services (DHHS) office in person, bye-mail: portland.dhhs@maine.gov or by fax: (207)778–8429

Clothing
Many Food Pantries also have Clothing Closets where clothing andother things listed below are free or very inexpensive. Items are called“Used Clothing” because they are not new and have been worn byothers. Although most donated clothing is usually clean, you may want
to wash any items that you take home.

Portland Used Clothing Resources
Matthew 25 Project
307 Congress Street (207) 712–5239
Note: Emergency assistance for winter clothing, food, and fuel toneighbors in need. Call if you or someone you know is in need ofassistance.

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Preble Street Resource Center Clothing Closet
38 Preble Street (207) 775–0026
Mon/Tue/Fri: 1–3pm, Thurs: 8–10am, Sat–Sun: 8am–12noon
The Root Cellar
94 Washington Avenue (207) 774–3197
Thurs: 10:30–11:30am Note: For $2, each person receives a large sizedtrash bag that can be used to fill with items found in the store.
St. Elizabeth’s Jubilee Center, St. Luke’s Cathedral
143 State Street (207) 772–5434
Tues:9–11:30am Note: Use Park Street entrance.
St. Vincent de Paul Soup Kitchen; Cathedral of Immaculate
Conception
307 Congress Street (207) 772–1113
Fri: 11am–12:30pm
Note: Clothing is available each Friday when the soup kitchen is open.
State Street Church UCC Clothing Closet
159 State Street (207) 774–6396
Wed: 9–11am; closed the first Wednesday of every monthNote: Clothing, coats, jackets, boots, shoes, bedding, linens, toys, books,
small household items are all available for free.
White Memorial Seventh Day Adventist Church
97 Allen Avenue (207) 797–4414
Mon: 4–6pm

South Portland Used Clothing ResourcesChildren’s Closet; First Congregational Church UCC of South
Portland301 Cottage Road (207) 799–3361
First and third Wednesday of every month: 9–11am,
First and third Saturday of every month: 9–11am Note: Clothing for
infants and children, toys and home furnishings are available.
Life Essentials Community Center
51 Landry Circle (207) 767–2127
Third Thursday of the month: 7:30am–1pm
South Portland Church of the Nazarene
525 Highland Avenue (207) 767–2127
First Thursday of each month: 7:30am–1pm Note: Visitors may comeonce a month. Clothing for infants, children, adolescents and adults areavailable.

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FREE AND LOW-COST HEALTHCARE
Clinics
Clinics cover the primary healthcare needs of populations in local
communities. Primary healthcare includes health promotion, disease
prevention, health maintenance, and treatment of illnesses, not medical
emergencies that would require hospitalization or surgery. Medical
clinics listed here are free or low-cost.
Portland Community Free Clinic (PCFC)
103 India Street, Portland (207) 874–8982
A health clinic that offers basic care to low-income and uninsured adults
in Cumberland County. All services are free. Doctors, nurses and nurse
practitioners give their time as volunteers. To become a patient at PCFC,
you must:• Be between the ages of 18 and 64• Have a low level of income• Have stable housing• Have no health insurance• Have no primary care giver (general doctor)• Live in Cumberland County
How to Become a Patient: The Free Clinic cannot accept you if you justwalk in from the street. Please call during office hours with questions, toregister as a new patient, or to make an appointment.
Office Hours: Mon–Thurs 8:30am–5pm
Greater Portland Health(207) 874–2141
Locations:• 180 Park Avenue, Portland• 100 Brick Hill Avenue, South Portland• 63 Preble Street, Portland• 59 Riverton Drive, Portland• 211 Cumberland Avenue, Portland
Provides many services including primary medical, behavioral health,and oral health. They accept all insurances as well as those without
insurance. Call for more information or to make an appointment.
www.greaterportlandhealth.org
Frannie Peabody Center
30 Danforth Street, Suite 311, Portland(207) 774–6877 or (866) 701–3897
info@peabodycenter.org
Case management, support services, behavioral health counseling, andhousing assistance programs for people living with HIV/AIDS. Services
to help people avoid becoming infected with the HIV/AIDS virus.
www.peabodycenter.org

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India Street Public Health Center
103 India Street, Portland (207) 874–8446
A health center where doctors and nurses help Portland residents reduce
health risks, prevent HIV and sexually transmitted diseases (STDs), andmanage existing health conditions. Run by the City of Portland.
www.portlandmaine.gov/399/India-Street-Public-Health-Center
Maine Mobile Health Program (MMHP)PO Box 405, Augusta, ME 04332 or 9 Green Street, Augusta(207) 622–9252 or 1 (888) 351–9634 mmhp@mainemobile.org
A mobile health center connected to a network of health providers in
Maine whose goal is to ensure healthcare for agriculture and aquaculture
workers and their families. They offer clinics at farmworker camps andhousing. They can:Provide access to primary and preventive care, specialty care, dental,
vision and mental health services
Help with the cost of health visits and prescriptions
Help schedule appointments
Provide transport to medical appointments
Offer interpretation
Provide health education
Send an email for more information and for eligibility information.
http://www.mainemobile.org/
Planned Parenthood
443 Congress Street, Portland (207) 797–8881
A nationwide provider of reproductive health care. Some of theirservices include general health care, birth control, HIV services,pregnancy tests, sexually transmitted disease (STD) testing, treatment,
and vaccines.https://www.plannedparenthood.org/health-center/maine/
portland/04101/portland-health-center-2940-91770
The Root Cellar Adult Free Medical Clinic
94 Washington Avenue, Portland (207) 774–3197 info@therootcellar.org
A medical doctor and nurse are at the Root Cellar one morning a week
to see patients for medical needs. The clinic can write prescriptions andrefer you to specialists. The clinic is connected to Mercy Hospital. Call
to schedule an appointment.
www.therootcellar.org
The Root Cellar Pediatric Clinic
94 Washington Avenue, Portland (207) 774–3197 info@therootcellar.org
A clinic for children with no insurance or with only catastrophic
insurance. The clinic is open one afternoon a week and canprovide necessary vaccines, primary care services (ongoing, nonemergency health care needs), and some specialty care services.
Call to schedule an appointment.
www.therootcellar.org

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Hospitals
Hospitals offer specialized treatments and may admit inpatients forovernight stays. They are the place to go for emergency care (medical
services that require immediate examination and treatment) or if you
have nowhere else to go.
Maine Medical Center 22 Bramhall Street, Portland (207) 662–0111
A complete health care center for the people of greater Portland, theentire state of Maine, and northern New England. Free Care is provided
to people at 175% of the poverty level whose insurance or government
assistance will not pay for the care. Check if you are eligible for Free
Care here: https://mainehealth.org/patients-visitors/billing-insurance/
financial-assistance/free-care.
Mercy Hospital 144 State Street, Portland (207) 879–3000
A not-for-profit community health care system sponsored by the Sistersof Mercy of the Americas. It is a member of EMHS, an organization that
supports individuals and communities to improve health and well-being
by providing high quality, cost effective services. Free Care is provided
to people at 150% of the poverty level whose insurance or government
assistance will not pay for the care.

Interpretation Services:
Many large organizations, like the Hospitals, have freeinterpretation services. You may ask for an interpreter when
you go there. At any organization, you may ask if there areinterpretation services available. If there is no free service, suchas at the Bureau of Motor Vehicles, you may bring someone tohelp or pay a private interpreter.

TRANSPORTATION
Methods of transportation include bus, bike, car, and walking. Greater
Portland has several modes of public transit, including buses (local andregional) and trains (Amtrak-Downeaster – amtrakdowneaster.com).
There are also organizations that support biking and walking. Portland
has extensive trail systems that link the city. All buses have two bikeracks and many bus routes connect to walking trails.

Bus
Greater Portland Transit METRO
Downtown Transportation Center: 21 Elm Street, Portland(207) 774–0351 info@gpmetro.org

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Bus Service: Greater Portland Transit METRO
provides public transit services to Brunswick, Falmouth,
Freeport, Gorham, Portland, South Portland, Westbrookand Yarmouth. Visit the transportation center for tickets
and information.
Visit their website for maps and schedules:
https://gpmetro.org/35/Maps-Schedules
Interpreter Services: Call (207) 774–0351 or visit the
downtown transportation center to ask for interpretation.
For more information or to read a ride brochure translated
into multiple languages, go to:https://gpmetro.org/166/Multi-Lingual-LEP-Information

Transit made for

YOU AND

New routes, vehicles, service, and a fresh new direction.
METRO is Maine’s largest public
transit agency with service toBrunswick, Falmouth, Freeport,
Portland, South Portland, Yarmouth,
Westbrook, and NOW, Gorham.

Sign up for alerts and check out
updated schedules on our new website.
gpmetro.org | 207.774.0351

25

Title VI -- Your Rights under the Civil Rights Act of 1964:“No person in the United States shall, on the ground of race, colorof national origin, be excluded from participation in, be denied thebenefits of, or be subjected to discrimination under any program of
activity receiving Federal financial assistance.”
If you feel you have been discriminated against based on race, color
or national origin, you may file a complaint with Greater Portland
Transit District METRO. For more information on filing a complaint,
visit gpmetro.org for information on METRO’s Title VI Notification
Procedures; call (207)774–0351; or visit their administrative offices
at 114 Valley Street in Portland.
You can text gpmetro to 72345 to report harassment.
Bus fare: How much does it cost to ride the bus?
Local Service: Portland, Falmouth, Gorham, South Portland, and Westbrook:• One Way Ride: 		$1.50/$.75 reduced fare*• Youth Fare (Ages 6–18):$1.00• Ages 5 and Younger: Free (for up to 2 children for each adult)
Express Service between Portland, Yarmouth, Freeport, and Brunswick:• One Way Ride:		
$3/$1.50 reduced fare*• Youth Fare (Ages 6-18)$2• Ages 5 and Younger Free (for up to 2 children for each adult)*Reduced Fare: You must present proper identification:
Seniors: Medicare Card, Photo ID (with birthdate) or METRO
Reduced Fare Card
Persons with Disabilities: Medicare Card or METRO Reduced
Fare Card
Visit gpmetro.org/163/Reduced-Fare to apply for a reduced fare card

Transfers: Transfers are free. If you need to take two buses to reachyour destination, ask for a free transfer when you get on the bus.
Transfers for METRO buses are valid in Portland and South Portland.
They cannot be used for return trips.
Don’t Forget:• Wait at the bus stop at least five minutes before the bus is due toarrive• Wait for riders to exit the bus before boarding

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SET• Pull the yellow cord to request your stop
• All buses are wheelchair accessible andhave bike racks• Seats in the front of the bus are forseniors and persons with disabilities• Please check to make sure you haven’t
left belonging on the bus. If you do lose
something, please call customer service
at 207-774-0351• Never cross the street in front of a bus• Tell the bus operator if you feel unsafe• If the bus stop is covered with snow, go
to the nearest intersection

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TIP: Make sure you havethe exact amount for bus
fare. Bus drivers do notmake change. Dollar bills
and coins are accepted.
Monthly passes, TenRide
tickets, and Day Passes
are available.

City of South Portland City Bus
41 Thomas Street, South Portland (207) 767–5556
The City of South Portland offers a public bus system, with free transfers
between South Portland Bus Service and METRO within the greater
Portland service areas. Visit their website for maps and schedules.
http://southportland.org/departments/bus-transportation
ShuttleBus – Zoom
13 Pomerleau Street, Biddeford (207) 282–5408
A weekday commuter service that connects Biddeford, Saco andPortland.
http://www.shuttlebuszoom.com/

Bike/Walk
Bicycle Coalition of Maine
38 Diamond Street, Portland (207) 623–4511
Provide safe riding classes for adults and children.
http://www.bikemaine.org/education-safety
Portland Gear Hub
155 Washington Avenue, Portland (207) 761–7632
ajudge@campketcha.org
Bicycles for All Mainers Program: A free or low fee program for New
Mainers to access bicycles and learn to ride safely. Participants whocomplete the program receive a refurbished bicycle, helmet, lights
and other accessories, as well as training on safe riding and bicycle
maintenance. Apply online at: http://www.bikemaine.org/allmainers
portlandgearhub.org
Portland Trails
305 Commercial St., Portland (207) 775–2411 info@trails.org
Greater Portland’s extensive trail system for walking, bike riding, andsnow activities. See the trail map online at: http://trails.org/our-trails/
classic-trail-map/

27

Walking: How to Be Safe
• Be aware of vehicle traffic at all times when you are a walking acrossthe street. In the U.S., people drive on the right side of the street, solook left, right and left again before crossing.
• When using crosswalks, pedestrians legally have the right-ofway, which means that cars must stop for pedestrians at all times.
However, they sometimes don’t, so make sure cars stop before you
cross.
• Drivers have a harder time seeing at night, so be extra careful. You
may want to wear reflective clothing or carry a flashlight if you plan towalk on a street that does not have a sidewalk.

Biking: Bike Safety• When on a bike, follow the same rules as vehicles while on the road:
Bikes must travel in the same direction as cars, stop at stop signs
and stop lights, and signal that they are going to turn.
• Pay attention to traffic and pedestrians stepping off sidewalks.
Sidewalks are for people walking, not for bikes.
• Use city bike trails and designated bike lanes
when they are an option.
• Wear a helmet to prevent head injury.
• When riding at night, add a front headlight and arear red light to increase visibility.
• Lock up your bike securely when you leave it.
• Bike locks can be found at bike shops or sports
stores:Ride ShareRegional Transportation Program (RTP) (207) 774–2666
RTP is a ride sharing service that provides transportation to people wholive in and visit Cumberland County. People who need a ride have tobook rides in advance.
http://rtprides.org/
Uber
Uber is an app that you can download for your phone. It works like ataxi service, but everything is done through the app. You provide yourcredit or debit card information, and you can request an Uber to pick
you up wherever you are. After you get dropped off at your destination,
your card will be charged for the ride. Uber rides between points on thepeninsula in Portland generally average around $5.
https://www.uber.com/cities/portland-me28

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Lyft
Lyft is an app that you can download for your phone, like Uber. It works
like a taxi service, but everything is done through the app. You provide
your credit or debit card information, and you can request a Lyft to pick
you up wherever you are. After you get dropped off at your destination,
your card will be charged for the ride.
https://www.lyft.com/rider/cities/portland-me
When using rideshare there are a few basic safety tips everyone should
follow. Confirm details when the car arrives. Pay attention to the make,model and color of the car, as well as the driver’s name and photo. Matchthe license plate number on your phone to the one on the car that arrives
and don’t share too much personal information with your driver.

TIP: How to Stay Warm in the WinterWinter temperatures in Greater Portland are coldest in
December, January, and February. High temperature
hover around freezing and lows are 15–20° F (-6–10°C).
Below freezing days happen an average of 10–20 days ayear. During the winter, it often snows in Greater Portland,
averaging 15–20 days a year.
There are ways to keep you and your family warm. Whenyou go outside wear:• A warm winter coat or “parka” (down fill is warmest)• Warm hat (wool is warmest)• Warm layers under your jacket, including a sweater andlong underwear if it is below freezing. Long underwear isa closely fitting garment with long sleeves and/or legs towear under normal clothing• A warm scarf and wind-resistant gloves• Warm water-resistant boots or shoes. Wear wool socks
underneath – wool is much warmer than cotton and willkeep your feet dryer than cotton socks• A snowsuit (for children playing outside)29

SETTLING INTO THE COMMUNITY
Once your basic needs are met, you can begin settling in by finding
more permanent housing. You can get connections to healthcare,such as dental and eye care. In your free time, start English classes
or use the free internet at your local library. If you have kids, you
can enroll them in school and get them involved with out-of-school
activities.

RENTAL HOUSING
Rental housing is a place to stay that is not a temporary shelter.
Catholic Charities Maine Refugee and Immigration Services (RIS)
places refugees in rental housing right away. For asylum seekers,
General Assistance (GA) offers “vouchers.” Vouchers are a piece of
paper that can be exchanged for rent. Once you receive these you canlook for an apartment or house. The amount of the vouchers determines
what you can afford. If GA does not have any available housing,you may be asked to find your own. Know that when you rent, you areentitled to standards called tenants rights. Once you find housing, there
is help to get free and low-cost furniture.
Catholic Charities, Maine Refugee and Immigration Services (RIS)80 Sherman Street, Portland (207) 871–7437
Maine’s only refugee resettlement program provides many services forrefugees including housing.
www.ccmaine.org/refugee-immigration-services
General Assistance (GA)GA helps residents of each city or town get basic needs such as rent,
food, medication, and other necessary things. Gives vouchers for rentto those who are eligible. See page 13 of this Welcome Guide for
how to apply.
Portland General Assistance
196 Lancaster Street, Portland (207) 775–7911
Westbrook General AssistanceWestbrook Community Center, 426 Bridge Street, Westbrook(207) 854–0676
South Portland General AssistanceCity Hall, 25 Cottage Road, South Portland (207) 767–7617
Falmouth General Assistance
Town Hall, 271 Falmouth Road, Falmouth (207) 699–5344

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Steps to Find Rental Housing:
1. Look online for apartments for rent. https://maine.craigslist.org/
is a common source. You may need to look in several cities or
towns.
2. Contact the landlord or agency in the listing. Ask if they accept
payment from General Assistance. Many landlords do not. You
may ask GA for help finding ones that do.
3. Ask if there is an application. If so, ask how to get it. Fill it out.
4. Ask if there is an application fee. If so, ask if the fee will be
returned in the event you are not given the apartment.

ProsperityME: The Center for Financial Education
309 Cumberland Avenue, Portland(207) 797–7890
Through its Supporting Immigrant Tenants program ProsperityME assists
asylum seekers with security deposits. The program will pay up to $1500
for families towards a security deposit. The note is a non-interest loan
which the applicant will pay back once employed.
www.prosperityme.org

TIP: If you do not have a computer, use your local library’s
free computers. A librarian can help you understand how to
use Craigslist.

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31

“NEW WORDS”
Security Deposit is an amount of money you put down to “hold” yourrental agreement. You give it to the landlord or manager so he or she will
not rent the apartment to someone else. This is usually the same cost
as the apartment you want to rent. For example, if your rent is $900 per
month, your security deposit will be $900 also. When you move out of theapartment—and if the apartment is clean and the landlord does not findany damage—you are owed the $900 back. Although GA will pay yourrent, you will have to pay for your own security deposit.
Landlord is a person who owns a house or apartment building and rents
it to other people. Sometimes the landlords of rental apartments live inanother city or state. In this case you will rent from a manager and takeyour problems or complaints to him or her.
Tenants are the people who pay money to live in a rental property.
Lease is an agreement between you and your landlord, which includes
the terms and conditions of your rental. It is one of the most important
documents you will get when you rent an apartment. Read “What Is a
Lease?” section in this Guide.

New to the USA? Need help managing your money?

“The class is very crucial to refugees and immigrants because it
educates them in money management in America, but it also opens up theirminds to think beyond ‘just survival’ since a new start can be very hard andintimidating. It motivates them to surpass their limits.” - Daniella, Burundi• Financial Education Classes & Counseling • IDA Savings Program •• Security Deposit Loans • Scholarships for Asylum Seekers •We’re moving in April! 62 Elm Street, Portland, Maine 04101 • Walk-ins welcome!
207-797-7890 | www.prosperityme.org | prosperityme@prosperityme.org

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What is a Lease?
When you have found a place to rent, you should have a lease, which
is an agreement between you and your landlord (the person you are
renting from). The lease explains in detail the terms and conditions ofyour rental of the property. Not all leases will look the same, but they willcontain the same kind of information, including:• The address of the place you intend to rent. This is also the address
where people can send you mail.
• The length of time of your lease. A yearly lease, for example, meansthat you agree to stay there for at least a year before moving out.
• How much you will pay each month in rent, who to mail your payment
to, and when payment is due each month.
• How much you will be required to pay as a “security deposit.” Thesecurity deposit is money that the renter pays to the landlord only
once, when the lease is signed. This payment means the rental
property cannot be rented to someone else. The landlord keeps thismoney until the lease is finished, and then it is returned to you when
you move out (unless there is damage to the rental unit that wasn’t
there before).
• Consequences for ‘breaking the lease’ (leaving before the lease time
is completed). For example, if you move before your lease is overyou may not get your security deposit back.
• Pet policies, which will state whether you can keep a pet in the rented
apartment or house.
• What is included in your rental fee, such as utilities (heat, electric,
water, etc.), appliances (refrigerator, washer and dryer, stove, etc.),
parking, etc.
• An explanation of when the landlord has the right to enter theapartment. This is when the landlord needs to enter the apartment
to do repairs, to show the apartment to other people who are thinking
about renting it, or if the landlord suspects that the tenant is breaking
any laws. However, your landlord must follow the law and enter atreasonable times. He or she must tell you before he or she wants toenter, unless it is an emergency.

Low Income Housing
To build wealth can take time. Income may vary as you find your first job.
If your income is low, Greater Portland has several options for affordable
housing. What you pay depends on your income.
Public Housing: offers individuals and families affordable housing tobuy or rent. You may be eligible. The U.S. Department of Housing and
Urban Development (HUD) decides who is eligible by whether theymeet a certain income amount. If you are interested in applying for public
housing call the Public Housing Authority (PHA) in the city where you live.

33

Portland Housing Authority (PHA)
14 Baxter Boulevard, Portland (207) 773–4753
In addition to affordable housing, services for PHA housing developments
include study centers for school-age children, adult English literacy
classes, family support services, access to food pantries, health andwellness programs, and summer meals for youth.
http://www.porthouse.org/
Westbrook Housing
30 Liza Harmon Drive, Westbrook (207) 854–9779
www.westbrookhousing.org
South Portland Housing Authority
100 Waterman Drive Suite 101, South Portland (207) 773–4140
www.spha.net
Rental Assistance Vouchers: The Section 8 program, or the Housing
Choice Voucher (HCV) program is the way the U.S. Government helps
people who either cannot afford housing or cannot find good quality
housing. Vouchers are used to pay for all or part of privately-owned
rental housing.
Go to http://mainesection8centralwaitlist.org/dup/ to learn
more about the Section 8 Voucher and how to apply. You
may print out an application from the website or pick one up
at the Housing Authority in the city where you live.
If you are given a housing voucher, you must first find an apartment
or house where the owner agrees to rent to you under the program.
The housing subsidy is paid directly from the Housing Authority to thelandlord. You will then pay the remaining rent to the landlord.
Below is a chart of the maximum income limits for you and your family tobe eligible for a voucher.

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to
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The Le se, as shallmises andactiog of thr
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andf and dtitled to city o are a
pt31inuteye. SEPAshll haase
18. OT GULATIO
The
term
rentSEshall be $__________,
hereinotherwiseprovided,in installments
of $__________,
ndallseaspayable,
e pred except
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thefiscalyear____________
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32. CO
neglicommencing
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and cases,
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In someaan
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shthents ntLE
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rubbis ment shall ss
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udncoconsenestro lease
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irty Syearf re yein firs
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any icheitaheeallp reppree asereD yedtheana
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until inbefo the e takin to be (30) option by giv e mada
20. PE
duringlease
TEmisses angon
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ss
r shall miof,fur the33
suse thenwhichsuche,
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unlesscarefully read and realRr fo n. T whenmaestatebillleasedpremises)
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additional
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21. PLt, durin
thwit
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cusio
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understand thissection.
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Example of what a lease looks like. This one is from the Portland Housing Authority (PHA).

TIP: You only need to apply to one housing authority.
By completing one application, you are included on thecentralized waiting list and may be considered by someor all participating housing authorities.
Avesta Housing
307 Cumberland Avenue (207) 553–7777
Info@AvestaHousing.org
Avesta Housing manages affordable properties and units throughout theGreater Portland region. Call or visit their website to learn more about
renting with Avesta.
https://www.avestahousing.org/

35

Tenants Rights
In the United States, there are standards for rental housing called
tenant’s rights.
New Mainers Tenants’ Association
Help establish housing justice for New Mainers through programs,
advocacy, and tenant organizing.
• Housing Orientation Program: Classes for New Mainers to learn
about housing in the U.S. and understand their rights as tenants.
• Housing Ambassadors Program: Support individuals to represent
New Mainers and advocate on their behalf for housing rights.
sonia@newmainersTA.org
https://newmainersta.org
City of Portland’s Office of Housing Safety
Licensing and Registration Office,Room 307, City Hall, 389 Congress Street, Portland(207) 756–8131 or (207) 874–8557
Landlords are required to register their property with the City of Portland
to ensure it meets safety standards. You may make complaints at the
Licensing and Registration Office or by phone.
https://www.portlandmaine.gov/1656/Housing-Safety

Tenant Housing Rights and Landlord Responsibilities• The law says that a landlord cannot refuse to rent to you
because of your race or color, the country you came from,your religion, your sex, a physical disability or your family
status.
• If you break the rules of your lease, your landlord may end
your lease or force you to move out.
• Your landlord may only increase your rent after your lease
expires, unless your lease says otherwise.		
• If your landlord doesn’t maintain the rental in a livablecondition during the entire time you live there, you have theright to withhold part of your rent from the date you noticed
the breaking of the Warrant of Habitability.
• Your landlord cannot do anything against you related toknowing your legal rights and acting on them.

36

EGRATION
INTIC NEEDSBAS

SETTLIN G IN

Furniture
Furniture Friends
Westbrook (207) 210–5797 info@furniturefriends.org
Furniture Friends provides donated furniture for people in needthroughout Scarborough, Cape Elizabeth, South Portland, Falmouth andWestbrook. Clients need a referral in order to get items.
http://furniturefriends.org/

Used Clothing and Furniture for Low Prices
Threads of Hope; Catholic Charities Thrift Store
Union Station Plaza, 244 St. John Street, Portland (207) 781–8555
Mon–Sun: 10am–6pm
Goodwill Thrift Store
200 Larrabee Road, Westbrook (207) 887–8330
50 Market Street, South Portland (207) 741–2056
555 Maine Mall Road, South Portland (207) 553–2223
251 US Route 1, Falmouth (207) 347–8252
Salvation Army Family Store
30 Warren Ave, Portland (800) 728–7825
Mon, Thurs–Sat: 9am–6pm., Tue–Wed: 9am–8pm.

OUR HEALTHCARE SYSTEM
In the United States, healthcare is usually paid through insurance. If
you do not yet have insurance, these organizations can help you accessmedical care. This section also lists clinics where you can get dental oreye care for free or at a low cost. It also explains counseling and safety
services and where to go for support. Health insurance is explained at
the end.
Maine Access Immigrant Network (MAIN)
237 Oxford Street, Suite 25A, Portland (207) 552–1800 info@main1.org
Multilingual access to health and social services for New Mainers.
• Community Health Outreach Workers: Help immigrants andrefugees learn about the Affordable Care Act and assist themwith their health insurance enrollment. Also make referrals to othercommunity resources.
• Healthy You Workshops: Free monthly workshops about chronic
disease and preventative health education. Taught by qualified healthprofessionals and translated into French, Somali and Arabic.
www.main1.org
CarePartners
241 Oxford Street, Portland (207) 662–7967
Helps people who don’t qualify for public or private healthcare coverage
get the healthcare they need. Call 1 (877) 626–1684 for more information.

37

Dental Clinics
Dental clinics offer free or low-cost dental procedures and treatments toadults or children. They are usually connected to a university, community
organization, or local government.
Children’s Oral Health Program
Riverton School Community Center, 1600 Forest Avenue, Portland(207) 541–6627
Preventative dental services are provided by public health dental
hygienists at all the Portland Public Schools or by appointment at theRiverton Community Center. Comprehensive dental care is provided
by a Greater Portland Health dentist at the School-based Health Center
located in Portland High School (284 Cumberland Ave.) Call to make an
appointment.
http://www.greaterportlandhealth.org/services/childrens-oral-health-program

Community Dental
190 Park Avenue, Portland (207) 874–1028
Provides a full range of accessible and affordable quality dental care
to children, adults, and families in Maine. Visit their website for more
information. www.communitydentalme.org/
Greater Portland Health Oral Care
Multiple Locations (207) 874–2141
Provide high quality patient centered healthcare that is accessible,
affordable, and culturally sensitive.
Locations:• 59 Riverton Drive, Portland• 180 Park Avenue, Portland• 100 Brick Hill Avenue, South Portland• 63 Preble Street, Portland• 211 Cumberland Avenue, Portland
www.greaterportlandhealth.org
The Root Cellar Dental Clinic
94 Washington Avenue, Portland (207) 774–3197 info@therootcellar.org
Features a team of local, practicing dentists, hygienists and dental
assistants who volunteer their time to treat patients.
www.therootcellar.org/
University of New England Dental Hygiene Clinic
Colemen Dental Hygiene Building, 716 Stevens Avenue, Portland(207) 221–4900
Offers services to the public, functioning as both a community andteaching resource.
Hours: Open Mon–Fri 8am–4pm. September through April.
http://www.une.edu/wchp/dental/patient-info

38

EGRATION
INTIC NEEDSBAS

SETTLIN G IN

EyecareIf you need glasses to read, Wal-Mart, CVS, Rite Aid, and other drug
stores sell reading glasses for relatively cheap right in their stores. You’ll
have to visit an eye doctor for other types of glasses.
Casco Bay Eyecare
152 Middle Street, Portland (207) 773–2020www.cascobayeye.com
Eyemart Express
335 Maine Mall Road, South Portland (207) 771–7962
Affordable, quality prescription eye glasses.

https://www.eyemartexpress.com/get-glasses/SOUTH-PORTLAND/04106

Maine Eye Center
15 Lowell Street, Portland (207) 774–8277
www.maineeyecenter.com

Counseling and Safety Services

Counselors are people who support our mental health: Our emotions,
psychological, and mental well-being. They can help with trauma New
Mainers have undergone in their past, the stress of migration andresettlement, and even everyday challenges associated with integrating
into community, school, work, health care, and other systems. Mental
health services can be underused by immigrants. These programs arefree or low-cost and are here to support you.
Refugee and Immigrant Counseling & Case Management (RICCM);
Maine Behavioral Healthcare
165 Lancaster Street, Portland (207) 874–1030
Works with children, youth, adults, elders, and families who haveimmigrated to the U.S. and have experienced emotional and/or
behavioral difficulties. RICCM staff are members of the culturalcommunities they serve. Services include:• Counseling• Case management• Specialized support groups
https://mainehealth.org/maine-behavioral-healthcare/services/
counseling-therapy-services-adult-child/refugee-services
Center for Grieving Children
555 Forest Avenue, Portland (207) 775–5216 cgc@cgcmaine.org
Serves children who are grieving the death of a parent or other family
member. They offer support groups and adult mentoring.
www.cgcmaine.org

39Cumberland County Crisis Response; Opportunity Alliance
190 Lancaster Street, Portland (207) 774–4357 or 1 (888) 568–
1112Crisis response service available 24 hours a day, seven days aweek to residents of Cumberland County. Individuals experiencing
a mental health crisis can get immediate treatment by a team ofprofessionals who are trained to respond to mental health crises. https://www.opportunityalliance.org/emergency-services/
Gateway Community Services
501 Forest Avenue, Portland (207) 536–1590
Provide mental health and community support services. Primarily serve
refugees and immigrants but open to everyone in Maine. Offices inPortland, Lewiston, and Augusta. Services include:• Youth Empowerment• Case Management• Counseling• Personal care
• Services for Children with intellectual disability• Behavioral Health Home services
www.gatewaycommunityservice.org
Immigrant Resource Center of Maine (IRCM)
265 Lisbon Street Suite 2 (2nd Floor), Lewiston or 24 Preble Street 3rd
Floor, Portland (207) 753–0061 info@ircm.org
The IRCM’s New Mainers Domestic Violence Partnership provides
education and creates community responses to domestic and sexual
violence in a culturally sensitive way.
https://www.ircofmaine.org/
Maine Behavioral Healthcare
165 Lancaster Street, Portland (207) 874–1030
Help adults in drug addiction recovery and promotes mental and physicalwell-being. https://mainehealth.org/maine-behavioral-healthcare
Portland Recovery Community Center (PRCC)
468 Forest Avenue, Portland (207) 553–2575
Offers a safe space and peer support for people recovering from all
addictions. Some of their peer groups include:• Alcoholics Anonymous (AA)• Narcotics Anonymous (NA)• Cocaine Anonymous (CA)• Heroin Anonymous (HA)
• Addicts in the family• Self-Management and Recovery Training
https://www.portlandrecovery.org/
Sexual Assault Response Services of Southern Maine (SARSSM)
175 Lancaster St, Portland (207) 828–1035 www.sarsonline.org/
Provides free and confidential services to victims of sexual assault. If

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you need help with domestic abuse, call 1 (800) 871–7741 anytime, 24
hours a day, 7 days a week.
Through These Doors (TTD)(207) 874–1973
Provide services for victims of domestic abuse such as an emergency
shelter, support groups, and counseling. Call 1 (800) 537–6066 anytime
for a free, confidential helpline. http://throughthesedoors.org/

HEALTH INSURANCE
In the United States, medical care is expensive. Our health system
is designed to be paid through health insurance. To enroll in healthinsurance, you pay the insurance company a set amount. The insurancecompany then pays all or part of your medical expenses, either directly
or by reimbursing you. Often health insurance is linked to one’s
employment. Individuals can also buy their own. The State of Maine
also offers free or low-cost health insurance to those who do not have it.
State Health Insurance: The State of Maine has programs for helping
Mainers with insurance:• MaineCare helps people with low income pay for health care, like
doctor visits and medication. Refugees and asylees with legal status
can get MaineCare benefits.
• Refugee Medical Assistance (RMA) program provides eight monthsof health insurance coverage to certain qualified immigrants who are
not eligible for MaineCare.
• Emergency MaineCare only pays for the health care services thatare needed to stabilize (keep from getting worse) a serious healthproblem. Emergency MaineCare does pay for the cost for labor anddelivery. It does not, though, pay for the expensive charges for an
ambulance.
• Marketplace Subsidies help to pay for private insurance in the
Health Insurance Marketplace if you have low income.
				To Apply:
Find out if you are financially eligible by calling or visiting:Maine Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS)
Portland District Office
151 Jetport Boulevard, South Portland 822–2000 or (855) 797–4357
Hours: Mon–Fri, 8am–5pm
1. Fill out an application. These can be picked up at the office orprinted off the website: https://www.maine.gov/dhhs/mainecare.shtml
2. You may be asked to bring documents to your appointment toprove your identity and that you are a lawfully admitted immigrantor refugee. DHHS advices: “Do not delay applying because
information or a document is not immediately available to you.
This information can be obtained later in the interview process.”

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Maine Equal Justice Partners
126 Sewall Street, August (207) 626–7058 or 1 (866) 626–7059
Support low-income people in Maine through legal services, advocacy,outreach, organizing, and education. Their website which explains “Whatyou should know about public benefits,” including health insurance, istranslated into 10 languages:
https://www.mejp.org/content/information-immigrants
Employer Sponsored Health Insurance: This refers to healthinsurance that an employer provides and is the most common way
that Americans get health insurance. Employers that employ at least
50 full-time employees are required to provide health coverage for
their workers. Benefits include your employer sharing the cost of thepremium with you and that the employer does the work of choosing theplan options. You may ask about health insurance benefits when you
interview for a job to learn if benefits are offered.
Individual Health Insurance: Individual health insurance is a policy
purchased by an individual for themselves and their family based upon
personal needs and budget. Companies like Aetna, UnitedHealthOne,
and Humana offer coverage.

Source: Maine Equal Justice Partners https://www.mejp.org/content/information-immigrant

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CHILDREN AND TEENS
Do you have children? This section explains childcare, schools, andprograms that are available to your children. Greater Portland has manydifferent kinds of support for children of all ages, both in school and outof-school.

ChildcareChildcare is when someone other than you or your family and friends
look after your children. This is very common in the United States, andthere are excellent childcare options in and around Portland, where yourchild will be well taken care of. If you have young children and would liketo take classes or work outside of your home, you may look for childcare.
Where to look for Childcare: Asking people in your community is agood way to get advice about childcare. You can also look online:
Child Care Choices; University of Maine’s Cutler’s InstituteThis website has a directory of childcare options. It can be searchedby how close it is to your home, what age your children are, and whatkind of program you are looking for. The site can be translated into one
hundred languages. It also has a useful “Resources for Families” page.
www.childcarechoices.me
Paying for Childcare: Full-time care for a child in Maine costs several
thousand dollars a year. It is more for infants. If you cannot pay forchildcare on your own, the State of Maine has different programs toassist you:Head Start; The Opportunity Alliance(207) 523–5049
A federal program for children ages birth to five years of age that helps
your child prepare to enter school. The focus of this program is todevelop thinking skills, social, and emotional development.
Note: You must be “income eligible” to participate. This means yourincome falls into the Federal Poverty Guidelines. Federal Poverty
Guidelines change each year and can be found online: https://aspe.hhs.
gov/poverty-guidelines. There are, however, a few slots that are notincome dependent.

To Apply:
1. Fill out the application online: https://www.childplus.net/apply/en-usC
1E991DB77AEECBC79CD5268C3E941DF/5C0A5B0F15BF367EC7
5952EAAB9C1A56
2. Someone from the enrollment office will contact you within 3 working
days to complete the application process.
www.opportunityalliance.org/programs/early-childhood-education/

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Maine’s Child Care Subsidy Program; Department of Health andHuman Services (DHHS)(877) 680–5866 or (207) 624–7999 CCSP.DHHS@maine.gov
A program from the State of Maine that helps families pay for childcareso they can work, go to school, or participate in a job training program.
To Apply:
1. Find out if you meet the income
guidelines: https://www.maine.gov/
dhhs/ocfs/ec/occhs/step.htm
2. Fill out an application at the Child
Care Subsidy Program at your local
Department of Health and Human
Services (DHHS) Office (Office ofFamily Independence). You can also
print the application off their website
and return it to the office or send it by
mail.https://www.maine.gov/dhhs/ocfs/
ec/occhs/step.htm

TIP: Not all
childcare centers
accept Maine’s
child care subsidy.
Contact the centers
you are interested
in to ask them.
Some childcare
centers will nothave openings rightaway. You may
have to wait or findanother option.

SCHOOLS
The American school system includes twelve mandatory grades divided
into elementary, middle, and high school. Kindergarten is an optional
first year in schools. Before schools begin, children can be enrolled in
daycare and then Preschool (Pre-K). After high school, students may go
on to higher education and degree programs.

Schools in the United States are either public or private. Public schools
are run by the local government and are free to attend because they arepaid for by local taxes and administered by local government. Private
schools, sometimes called independent schools, often charge tuition,

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or fee, for your children to attend, but they often offer scholarships andfinancial aid that can reduce the cost of attendance. Some families opt
to educate their children at home. This is called home schooling.

Public Schools by City
Portland Public Schools
353 Cumberland Avenue, Portland (207) 874–8100
www.portlandschools.org
Pre-Kindergarten: The Portland Public Schools offers seven public prekindergarten classes, located at six locations. Children are eligible if theyturn four years old on or before October 15 in the year of application andare residents of Portland. The free classes run from approximately 8:45
a.m. to 1:30 p.m.
Registration:
1. Complete a Pre-registration Form: Pick up at any of Portland
Public Elementary Schools or at Central Office/Multilingual Center or
download online: https://www.portlandschools.org/families/school_enrollment/pre-_kindergarten_classes Available in Acholi, Arabic,
French, Khmer, Portuguese, Vietnamese, Spanish, and Somali.
2. Return the completed form to your neighborhood elementary
school or the Central Office, located at 353 Cumberland Avenue,
Portland. Note: For the best chance to be accepted, submit yourform between the last Monday in February and first week in March.
Forms received after the first week in March are placed on a waitlist
according to date received and placed as space allows. Those who
receive a slot will be notified by mail after the lottery by the end of
March.
For more information call (207) 874–8113. For translation/interpretation
services, you may call the Multilingual & Multicultural Center forassistance at (207) 874–8135.
Kindergarten and Grade 1–12: Portland has ten elementary schools,
three middle schools, and four high schools. Where you live determines
which elementary and middle schools your child will attend. Parents
have a choice of high schools. You can register for your children toattend school anytime during the year. Kindergarten registration begins
on the last Monday in February.
Registration:
Registration is done online. You can go to any of Portland’s Public
Elementary Schools to use the online registration kiosks, use thepublic library computers, or use your own device. If you need technicalassistance navigating through the Online Registration call (207) 874–
8237 to speak to someone who can help. For translation/interpretation
services, you may call the Multilingual & Multicultural Center forassistance at (207) 874–8135.

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Have you moved in the past
3 years to work in any ofthese industries?

Fish/Shellfish Processing
Procesamiento de Pesca

Agriculture
Agricultura

Se ha mudado usted a esta área durante
los últimos 3 años para trabajar en una deestas industrias?

Food Processing
Procesamiento de Alimentos

Dairy Industry
Lechería

Are you under the age of 21 or doyou have children under the ageof 21?

Tiene usted menos de 21 años de edado tiene niños menores de 21 años
edad?

If you’ve answered yes to either ofthese questions you could qualify forfree educational services like:

Si usted respondió sí a algunas de estas preguntas usted y/o sus hijos podrían calificarpara servicios educativos gratis como:

Tutors for Children in SchoolTutores para niños escolares

English Classes



Clases de Ingles

Summer Programs

Programas de VeranoEnrichment Activities



Actividades de Enriquecimiento

Referrals to Community-Based Programs

Referidos a Programas Comunitarios

For More Information Call/Para más información llame:
Sean Douglas
207-598-8925

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1. Go to the Online Portal: You can find it through www.
portlandschools.org. Click on Families, and then School Enrollment.
Choose the level of education your child needs: Pre-K, Kindergarten,or 1–12 Registration. Then “Click Here” to enter the Online Portal.
2. Fill out information about:• Household: address and phone numbers• Parent/Guardian: work and cell phone numbers, email addresses• Student: demographic and health/medication information• Emergency Contact: phone numbers• Prior School(s): including pre-k
Multilingual and Multicultural Center: Portland Public Schools
353 Cumberland Avenue, Portland (207) 874–8135
multilingualcenter1@portlandschools.org
Builds relationships among families, educators, and the community andhelps multilingual parents register their children for school. It also offers
a college readiness program for multilingual students and has translationand interpretation services. https://mlc.portlandschools.org/
Portland Public Schools
After you apply online, you will need to bring these to the school tocomplete the enrollment process:• Original proof-of-birth document (this document will be returned toyou)• Child’s immunization records• Proof of residency in Portland (electricity, cable, internet bill orlease agreement/title of primary residence)

TIP: If you move homes, remember that the school your childattends may change!
Westbrook Public School Department
117 Stroudwater Street, Westbrook (207) 854–0800
https://www.westbrookschools.org/
Pre-Kindergarten: This free public program is available at the
Westbrook Community Center. To be eligible to be considered for thisprogram, your child must be 4 years old on or before October 15th andhave legal residence in Westbrook.
Registration: Fill out an application form by printing it out online: https://www.westbrookschools.org/pre-kindergarten-program and Return it to:
The Opportunity Alliance Family & Early Childhood Education Program,
Attn: Linda Goyet, 215 Congress Street, Portland, ME 04101

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You can also apply over the telephone by calling Linda Goyet at 553–
5816. The pre-application is the initial step; you will be contacted by
Linda Goyet to continue the application process.
Kindergarten and Grade 1–12: Westbrook has three elementary
schools, a middle school, a high school, and a vocational school.
Registration: During the summer months, you can register children
in any grade by contacting the school department’s Registrar, at (207)854–0810, ext. 2051. The Registrar’s office is located at Westbrook
High School. During the school year, please register students at theirassigned school by contacting the appropriate school administrative
assistant. Visit their website or email wsd@westbrookschools.org for
more information.
Westbrook Public Schools
What you will need to complete your application:• Parent/Guardian Identification (Driver’s License, State
Identification, Passport)• Child’s Official Birth Certificate, if available• Child’s Immunization Record• Two documents that prove residence in Westbrook, forexample, a real estate bill, rental agreement, utility bill, stateassistance document, homeowners/renters insurance, or vehicle
registration.

South Portland Public School Department
130 Wescott Road, South Portland (207) 871–0555
www.spsd.org
Pre-Kindergarten: There are two free pre-K classes at two different
schools. For more information and to register, go to:https://www.spsd.org/our-schools/south-portland-preschool/about-southportland-preschool
Kindergarten and Grade 1–12: South Portland has five elementary
schools, a middle school, and a high school.
Registration: The school that your child should attend depends on
where you live in South Portland. To find your school, go to www.spsd.
org, click on the Students and Parents tab, and then the Street Directory.
To register your children, you will need to call their school(s) to make aregistration appointment.

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South Portland Public Schools
What you will need to complete your application:• The child’s original birth certificate, if available• A copy of the child’s original immunization record• Proof of residency
Falmouth Public Schools
51 Woodville Road, Falmouth (207) 781–3200
www.falmouthschools.org
Kindergarten and Grade 1–12: Falmouth has an elementary school, a
middle school, and a high school.
Registration: Fill out enrollment forms and deliver them to the school.
To find these forms, go to www.falmouthschools.org, and scroll down tothe bottom of the home page. Click on School Enrollment. If your childwill attend elementary school, you can create an account and fill out their
online registration. For middle and high school, you will need to print out
the application and return the completed forms by mail or in person.

School Attendance
School in Maine is mandatory after age 7. This means you are legally
responsible for your child’s attendance. Truancy refers to students who
have missed school without permission. Children are considered truant if
they miss 7 or more days of school without an authorized excuse. A childis truant whether the days are full days or parts of days missed. The
missed days do not have to be in a row.
What is a valid absence? Schools consider the following reasons tobe an authorized excuse for missing school: the child is sick, there is afamily emergency, or it is a religious holiday. You must call your child’s
school to tell them why your child is missing school, even if it is a valid
absence.
If you have any questions or concerns about your child’s attendance you
may talk to your child’s teacher or ask at the school office.
Count ME In
482 Congress Street, Suite 303, Portland, (207) 747–9059
A resource and partner for schools who want to keep kids from missing
too many days of school.
Find helpful resources for parents about why school attendance isimportant at: https://countmeinmaine.org/newsite/explore-resources-forfamilies/49

What is Expected of Parents: In the United States you are
expected to play an active part in your children’s education. Thatmeans:• Attend parent-teacher meetings when your child’s teacher asks
you to come and talk
• Attend school “Open Houses,” evenings when all parents areinvited to come to their children’s school to meet their teachers
and learn about their classes• Help your children with their homework if you are able. Be surethey finish their homework before allowing them to do anythingelse• Teachers see parents as collaborators and partners in achild’s education. Generally, they are eager to hear yourperspective and ideas, and welcome questions. In American
culture, questions to better understand something are generally
welcomed

SCHOOL-BASED PROGRAMS
These are programs within Portland Public Schools which offer support
to New Mainers in middle and high school. You and/or your child may
ask to be part of these programs.
Jobs for Maine Graduates (JMG)
65 Stone St, Augusta (207) 620–7180 centraloffice@jmg.org
A statewide program which has specialists at Portland high schools(Portland High School and Deering High School) and South Portland
High School. Teach courses that help students achieve better grades
and take advantage of opportunities for future success. Contact yourchild’s guidance counselor about signing up for a JMG class.
https://www.jmg.org/
Make It Happen!; Portland Public Schools’ Multilingual andMulticultural Center
353 Cumberland Avenue, Portland (207) 874–8135
multilingualcenter1@portlandschools.org
Helps multilingual students succeed academically, prepare for college,
and apply to colleges and secure financial aid during senior year.
Students in grades 8–12 can join Make It Happen to be placed with atutor who will work with the student after school. The program operates
at all three high schools and all three middle schools in Portland.
For more information, visit their website or visit the Make It Happen
classroom at your school. https://mlc.portlandschools.org/programs/
make_it_happen

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Portland Mentoring Alliance; Portland High School
284 Cumberland Avenue, Portland (207) 842–5358
alexia@portlandschools.org
Matches Portland High School students with an adult mentor who
provides the student with both social and academic support and helps
the student prepare for college. Many students who request a mentor
are immigrants. For more information, visit the Portland Mentoring
Alliance office at Portland high school or their website.
https://www.portlandmentoringalliance.org/
Portland Empowered(207) 807–4283
Provides leadership opportunities for high school students and works topromote equal opportunities for all students in Portland public schools.
• Youth engagement partners: youth from Portland’s three public highschools who organize within their schools and district-wide to coconstruct the future of high school education in Portland• Parent engagement partners: parents, grandparents, siblings, alumni,
teachers, administrators, and community members who organize toensure that parent voice is authentically incorporated into decision
making in Portland’s three public high schools
Run by the Muskie School of Public Service at the University of SouthernMaine. https://www.facebook.com/portlandempowered/https://www.portlandempowered.org/

OUT-OF-SCHOOL TIME
After-school Programs
After school is over, there is time in the afternoon for your children to join
out-of-school time programs. These programs help young people feel
connected, supported, and engaged. They also keep them occupied.
After school is the time of day that is the most dangerous and risky toyouth if they are unsupervised. Some of these programs are free, others
provide scholarships or offer them at a lower cost for New Mainers.
Portland Parks & Recreation
212 Canco Road, Portland (207) 808–5400 recreation@portlandmaine.gov
Before and after-school programs at 9 elementary schools. Activities
include:• Indoor and outdoor games• Arts and crafts activities• Outdoor adventures• Healthy snacks• Books
For information about schedules, fees, and how to apply, visit theirwebsite. https://www.portlandmaine.gov/390/Recreation

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Westbrook Parks & Recreation
426 Bridge Street, Westbrook (207) 854–0676
gpost@westbrook.me.us
The Westbrook Community Center provides a variety of activities andprograms for people of all ages, including summer camps for kids. Youthprogramming includes:• After school programs• Soccer leagues• Open gym• Basketball skills classes• Family swim
Check their online catalog to see what currently is happening or contact
gpost@westbrook.me.us for more information.
https://secure.rec1.com/ME/westbrook-me/catalog
Westbrook’s Awesome After School & Summer Camp Programs
821 Main Street, Westbrook (207) 854–9408
This after school program includes martial arts, dance and sports. Freetransportation is available from Westbrook and Gorham elementary
schools.
https://westbrookafterschoolprogram.com/
South Portland Parks & Recreation
21 Nelson Road, South Portland (207) 767–7650
ajohnson@southportland.org
After school programs for grades K-5 with activities including games,
crafts, cooking, and homework help. Other youth programming includes:• Swim lessons• Dance classes• Yoga• Basketball league
For information about schedules, fees, and how to apply, visit theirwebsite.
https://southportlandme.myrec.com/info/default.aspx
Falmouth Parks and Community Programs
Mason-Motz Activity Center, 190 Middle Road, Falmouth (207) 699–
5302
Out-of-school activities run by the town of Falmouth include:• Preschool open gym and dance• Elementary musical theater and physical education• Yoga for kids
• Nature groups• Art classes• Sports clinics
Visit their website for a brochure of current programs.
https://www.falmouthme.org/parks-and-community-programs

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Portland Public Library
5 Monument Square, Portland (207) 871–1700
A free public resource with a main location downtown and branches
throughout the City.
• Children’s Library and Classes: Each branch has a dedicatedarea just for kids (ages 0–12). Your children may use this anytime
the library is open for reading, listening to music, and using kids’
programs on the computers. There are free classes and programs.
Children’s books and other materials come in many languages, inprint and online. You may ask the staff at the Children’s Desk to help
you get started.
• Teen Library and After-School Programs: The Main Library hasa special place just for teens (ages 12–19) where they can read,
watch movies, study, play games, connect, learn, and create. The
Teen Library offers video game playing on PlayStation 4 in the lounge
during selected hours and computers for teen use. There is a big
after school program where teens do homework and take part inclasses and activities.
Walker Memorial Library
800 Main Street, Westbrook (207) 854–0630 info@walkerlibrary.org
Offers toddler story-time and dance programs for children. Programmingfor youth and teens include after school crafts, science experiments, andwriter’s workshops.
https://walkerlibrary.org
South Portland Public Library
482 Broadway, South Portland (207) 767–7660
The South Portland Main Library has separate areas to serve children,
teens, and adults.
• Children’s Programs: Story time, baby play time, and legos• Teen Programs: iMake crafts class and 3-D Pens classhttps://southportlandlibrary.com
Falmouth Memorial Library
5 Lunt Road, Falmouth (207) 781–2351
fmllibrary@falmouthmemoriallibrary.org
Weekly or monthly children’s programming includes: Story time, Legoclub, science explorations, robotics, arts and crafts.
https://www.falmouthmemoriallibrary.org/
Boys and Girls Club
(207) 874–1069 info@bgcmaine.org
Locations: 277 Cumberland Avenue, Portland		
55 Riverton Drive, Portland		
21 Popham Street, Portland
169 Broadway, South Portland53

A free drop-in after school program with activities such as:• Academic help
• Sports• Games
http://www.bgcmaine.org/
LearningWorks AfterSchool (LWAS)
181 Brackett Street, Portland (207) 775–0105 ext.164
apichette@learningworks.me
Free, high-quality after school and summer programs for students ingrades 2–5 who need more help to do well in school and come fromfamilies that cannot afford a paid after school enrichment or tutoring
program. Note: Students are chosen by teachers at participating
schools. Talk with your child’s teacher if you think your child would be agood candidate.
https://www.learningworks.me/our-programs/learningworks-afterschoolsummer/
My Place Teen Center
755 Main Street, Westbrook (207) 854–2800
donna@myplaceteencenter.org
MPTC is a year round, free, out-of-school program for youth ages 10–18.
Some of the many programs at the center include:• Youth Leadership Academy and mentoring• Service learning and community projects• Tutoring and homework assistance• Study skills• Wellness and nutrition• Money management• Preparation for higher education• Job preparedness
https://myplaceteencenter.org/
Portland Community Squash (PCS)
66 Noyes Street, Portland (207) 221–6454 barrett@pcsquash.com
Junior Squash League has two practices a week and matches every
weekend. Participants switch between squash and wellness during
practice. Healthy snacks, racquets, goggles, and court shoes areprovided. High school youth have optional academic support once a
week. Financial assistance is available. PCS also holds summer camps
for middle and high schoolers. PCS members come from 30 countries
and speak 17 languages.
http://pcsquash.com/
Rippleffect
159 State Street, Basement, Portland (207) 791–7870
info@rippleffect.net
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teach leadership and outdoor skills, as well as engage in a community
service project. Also hold summer camps on Cow Island withscholarships available.
https://www.rippleffectmaine.org/youth-program-list/2017/12/12/role-afterschool-programs
The Root Cellar
94 Washington Avenue, Portland (207) 774–3197 info@therootcellar.org
Provides a free space where youth can drop in for food and games.
http://www.therootcellarport.org/our-programs
Soccer Maine
PO Box 327, Windham (207) 239–7834 administrator@soccermaine.com
A nonprofit that promotes and administers recreational and competitive
youth soccer programs across the state. Find their soccer clubs on theirwebsite. Teams in the Greater Portland area are the “Metro District.”
http://soccermaine.com/administration/soccer-maine-club-directory/
The Telling Room
225 Commercial Street, Portland (207) 774–6064
writers@tellingroom.org
A writing center that helps young people between the ages of 6–18
improve their writing skills, build confidence, and practice telling theirstories.
• Writers Block: A free after school program that meets once a week
between January and May. Participants in the program write on theirown or participate in structured writing time. Separate programs for
6–11 year-olds and for 12–18 year-olds meet weekly.
• Young Writers and Leaders: A free after school program forinternational multilingual high school students. Students must apply,complete an interview, and be selected in order to participate in the
program. The program runs for nine months.
https://tellingroom.org/
YES Basketball Program; USM
Sullivan Gym, 66 Falmouth Road, Portland (207) 772–6644
yestoyou@maine.rr.com
Basketball programs include:• Basketball Academy – skills and drills training• Summer basketball league• Fall, winter, and spring AAU (Amateur Athletic Union) leagues
http://www.yestoyouth.org/
YMCA of Southern Maine
70 Forest Avenue, Portland (207) 874–1111 Offer classes after school
and on weekends for children and adults, including free swim classes.
Services include:• A basketball gym

55

• Exercise room
• Pool• Group exercise classes• Swim lessons• Yoga classes
To use the YMCA, you and your children must become members.
Membership costs at the YMCA change depending on
how much you earn. The less money you make, thecheaper it costs to use the YMCA. If you have income,you will be asked for a document showing this when you
apply.
To apply: Go to the YMCA or print the application fromtheir website: http://www.ymcaofsouthernmaine.org/

YOUTH SUPPORT PROGRAMS
These are some of the many organizations that support youth in Greater
Portland.
Big Brothers Big Sisters
625 Main Street, Westbrook (207) 773–5437
A mentoring program where kids aged 7–17 are matched with an older
volunteer mentor in the community.
Community-based mentoring: Sends mentors and children out into thecommunity weekly to participate in activities they both enjoy.
Site-based mentoring: Pairs adult mentors with children in elementary or
middle school to meet at lunch, recess, or at an after-school program.
High school mentoring: Pairs high school students with children in anelementary or middle school.
Call for more information or download an application on their website.
https://somebigs.org/programs/
Blunt Youth Radio Project92 Bedford Street, Portland
A weekly WMPG radio talk show produced by high school students in
Portland. Send them a message online for more information.
http://www.bluntradio.org/contact-us/
Breakwater School
856 Brighton Avenue, Portland (207) 772–8689
A private school that also runs enriching after school programs andsummer camps. Scholarships are available, and transportation isprovided to and from some Portland schools.
school.breakwaterlearning.org/

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Catholic Charities Maine, Refugee and Immigration Services (RIS)
Mentoring Program(207) 523–2745
Matches young adults (ages 18–30) who have just arrived in Maine as
refugees or asylees with volunteer mentors. Mentors support, guide, act
as a friend, and help their mentee achieve his or her personal, academic,
and career goals.
Call or email kbrewer@ccmaine.org for more information.
Maine Youth Action Network (MYAN)
50 Lydia Lane, South Portland (207) 874–0060
A youth-led activist organization with:• An Annual Youth Leadership Conference• Youth policy boards• Youth-Adult Partnership networking and training sessions• Free youth taking action curriculum
http://www.myan.org/
Parkside Neighborhood Center; The Opportunity Alliance
85B Grant Street, Portland (207) 553–5940
A drop-in center with classes and other events for residents of Parkside
Neighborhood. Offers various educational and cultural opportunities
such as assistance with basic needs, after-school programming,community events, employment and mentoring services, and health andbudgeting classes.
www.opportunityalliance.org/programs/community-initiatives/parksideneighborhood-center/
Preble Street Teen Center
343 Cumberland Avenue, Portland (207) 775–0026
info@preblestreet.org
A free drop-in center that offers:• Three meals a day plus snacks to youth free of charge• 24 Hour support• Mental health and substance abuse counselinghttps://www.preblestreet.org/what-we-do/teen-services/teen-center/
Street Academy; Portland Adult Education
343 Cumberland Avenue, Portland (207) 874–8155
Located at the Preble Street Teen Center to support homeless youth gain
education and employment by:• Helping them enroll in and attend school• Making sure they have transportation to school• Providing job training• Interview skills• Job placement services• Resume writing
http://portlandadulted.org/programs_and_courses/street_academy

57Youth Building Alternatives (YBA); LearningWorks
181 Brackett Street, Portland (207) 775–0105 ext. 142
jbelanger@learningworks.me
Serves teens and young adults who have struggled to find their way inthe traditional education system. Since 1994, they have helped highschool dropouts aged 16–24 successfully transition to adulthood throughan alternative education model that includes:• HiSET exam preparation• Construction skills training• Leadership development• Job skills• Life skills
There is an interview process to be a part of YBA as space forparticipants is limited.
https://www.learningworks.me/our-programs/youth-building-alternatives/
Youth MOVE Maine
185 Lancaster Street, Portland (207) 541–0900
info@youthmovemaine.org
A statewide, regionally based youth and young adult-driven organization.
Support young people’s efforts to improve policies in mental health andjuvenile justice
Build skills for youth-adult partnerships
Have an advisory council for youth to work together on topics thatmatter to them and expand youth voice to effect policy and community
perception
https://youthmovemaine.org/

ADULT EDUCATION
Education is a life-long journey. There are many opportunities for adultlearning. All of the Adult Education organizations listed in the Learning
English section offer many other types of classes. Southern Maine
Community College also offers affordable courses. Some classes
help adults gain new skills to ready them for employment. Others areto support non-work related interest such as creativity, health, andcommunity. Look at the websites listed to find courses offered. Public
Libraries have resources for learning English, as well as any othersubject. They also have computers for public use and public events.
See the Public Libraries section for more.

Learning English
Adult education and English language programs can help those whose
English is not their first language gain the skills they need to more
effectively navigate their new environment. Learning to speak English
is very important in order to be successful. More and more jobs are

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requiring English proficiency as well as higher education. Because ofthis, there are many organizations and schools in Portland that offer
English for Speakers of Other Languages (ESOL) classes. These
classes may also be called English as a Second Language (ESL).
The Greater Portland Immigrant Welcome Center (IWC)
24 Preble Street, 3rd & 4th Floor, Portland (207) 517-3491
info@welcomeimmigrant.org
The iEnglish Project: A Digital Language Lab is a web-based learningand teaching platform to serve working adults with industry specificlanguage training. The platform provides personalized courses adapt toindividuals’ interests, goals, and proficiency level, and   career-aligned
content to break down workplace barriers. Powered by Voxy.
https://www.welcomeimmigrant.org/ienglish
Portland Public Library
5 Monument Square (207) 871–1700
A free public resource with a main library downtown and branches
throughout the City. Offer print, audio, and digital resources to help you
learn English on your own. You may ask the Research Desk for help
getting started.
• On the computer, you can learn English by taking your own course (inone of 15 languages), by watching films, or by practicing your math,reading, writing, speaking, and grammar. The English learning online
programs are available at all the library branches, or with a librarycard anywhere you can access the internet.
• The Main Library has most of the books on learning English as a
Second Language (ESL), books for beginner English readers, visual
dictionaries, and books in other languages. It also has CDs andDVDs about learning English.
• The Main Library offers 3 tables in the research area for students andtutors to use. It also has a quiet study area upstairs.
https://www.portlandlibrary.com/topics/english-language-literacy/
Portland Adult Education
14 Locust Street, Portland (207) 874–8155
adulted@portlandschools.org
Classes are offered from 8:30 AM to 8:30 PM. Extensive free ESOL
class schedule from literacy to College Preparation. An English
Language Learning computer lab offers flexible learning for those who
cannot attend classes or for students who wish to enhance their learning
in a supported digital environment. Intensive language classes are alsooffered at some levels. Appointments are offered throughout the school
year. For class and Language Lab schedule go to: http://portlandadulted.
org/programs_and_courses/english_learning

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Westbrook Adult Education
125 Stroudwater Street, Westbrook (207) 854–0826
greerl@westbrookschools.org
The Westbrook School Department has a strong ELL program withclasses at 4 levels at different times of day and evening. Classes areheld at the Westbrook Community Center, located at 426 Bridge Street in
Westbrook. Call to make an intake appointment.
http://westbrook.maineadulted.org/
South Portland Adult Education
637 Highland Avenue, South Portland (207) 767–3266 ext. 3834
brenneda@spsd.org
Offers evening ESOL classes at South Portland High School twice aweek. Daytime classes are offered at the Brick Hill Community Room at
80 Brick Hill Drive in South Portland twice a week. All classes are free,and students may enroll at any time by calling or emailing the Adult Ed
office. Schedule online: http://southportland.maineadulted.org/
Scarborough Adult Learning Center
Scarborough High School, 11 Municipal Drive, Scarborough(207) 730–5040 adulted@scarboroughschools.org
Offer ESOL classes. Email, call, or visit their website for more
information.
http://scarborough.maineadulted.org/
Hope House English Language Program (HHELP)
14 Sherman Street, Portland (207) 274–6005 diane@hopeacts.
org Provide beginner and intermediate English classes focused on
written and spoken language instruction. https://hopeacts.org/immigrantsupport/hhelp/
LearningWorks; English Language + Literacy
181 Brackett Street, Portland (207) 775–0105
revenson@learningworks.me
Offer free individualized one-on-one English tutoring andlife-skills-based English conversation classes.
To apply: Visit their office or fill out an application online:
www.learningworks.me
Salvation Army
297 Cumberland Avenue, Portland (207) 774–4172
Offer ESL and Tools for Life goal-setting classes. FREE CHILDCARE isprovided for student’s children while parent(s) attend class. Email mary.
irace@use.salvationarmy.org for more information.

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Southern Maine Community College (SMCC)
2 Fort Road, South Portland (207) 741–5500
This is Maine’s largest community college, with over 7,000 students,
more than 45 degree programs, and the lowest tuition and fees in New
England.
https://www.smccme.edu/
University of Southern Maine (USM)
88 Bedford Street, Portland (207) 780–5670 admitusm@maine.edu
Multi-campus public university and part of the University of Maine
System with:English for Speakers of Other Languages (ESOL) Program
Intensive English Language Program (IELP) to help those who wish to
study at USM or other universities.
Visit their website or email usmesol@maine.edu for more information.
https://usm.maine.edu/esol
Walker Memorial Library
800 Main Street, Westbrook (207) 854–0630 info@walkerlibrary.org
Has access to multiple online resources to help adults learn English.
https://walkerlibrary.org
YMCA of Southern Maine, Portland
70 Forest Avenue, Portland (207) 874–1111In addition to a place
to work out, the YMCA offers English as a Second Language (ESL)classes to community members at their Greater Portland Branch. FREE
childcare offered during their class sessions. Call or email sleighton@
ymcaofsouthernmaine.org for more information.
To use the YMCA, you must become a member. The YMCA charges asliding scale, depending on your income. If you have income, you will be
asked for a document showing this when you apply.
To apply: Go to the YMCA or print the application from their website:
http://www.ymcaofsouthernmaine.org/main/financial-assistance/
http://www.ymcaofsouthernmaine.org/

Public Libraries
Each city or town has its own public library you may use. Libraries
have public computers you are allowed to use. Lending is when you
are allowed to check out books, E-books, audiobooks, games, videos,
and music for free for a certain amount of time. Library books and othermaterials come in many languages. You can also read newspaper andmagazines from all over the world.

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Portland Public Library
A free public resource with a main library downtown and branches
throughout the City. All the branches have free computers with highspeed internet access and Microsoft Office for word processing,spreadsheets, etc. Computers have a time limit of 90 minutes with a
30-minute extension possible. Free Wi-Fi is available for those with theirown devices. Printing is available for a small cost. Each branch haslending and free events, classes, and programs for children and adults.
There is also a bookmobile (a little library inside a truck) which visitsschools and other locations.
Main Library 5 Monument Square, Portland (207) 871–1700
Hours: Mon–Thurs 10am–7pm, Fri 10am–6pm, Sat 10am–5pm
The Main Library has more material for English language learning, more
events and classes, an art gallery, and a few services other branches do
not have (laptops you can check out for free for 90 minutes and faxing
and color printing for a small cost.)
Burbank Branch 377 Stevens Avenue, Portland (207) 774–4229
Hours: Tues 10am–7pm, Wed–Fri 10am–6pm, Sat 10am–5pm
Riverton Branch 1600 Forest Avenue, Portland (207) 797–2915
Hours: Mon 1pm–6pm, Wed 9am–1pm, Thurs 1pm–8pm, Fri 9am–
12noon, Sat 9am–1pm
Peaks Island Branch 129 Island Avenue, Peaks Island (207) 766–5540
Hours: Tues 2–8pm, Wed 10am–4pm, Fri 10am–2pm, Sat 8am–12noon
Walker Memorial Library
800 Main Street, Westbrook (207) 854–0630 info@walkerlibrary.org
Hours: Mon/Wed/Fri 9am–5pm, Tues/Thurs 10am–7pm, Sat 9am–1pm
In addition to books, movies, and audiobooks, offer computers and online
resources for kids, teens, and adults to learn. Photocopying and printing
can be done for a small fee, and scanning is free. The Library provides
technology assistance, book discussion groups, writers groups, andyouth programming.
https://walkerlibrary.org
South Portland Public Library
Main Library: 482 Broadway, South Portland (207) 767–7660
Hours: Tue–Thurs 10am–8pm, Fri–Sat 10am–pm
Memorial Branch: 155 Wescott Road, South Portland (207) 775–1835
Hours: Mon 10am–8pm, Wed 2–6pm, Fri 2–6pm, Sun 12noon–5pm
The Main Library has more books and most of the library’s programmingcompared to the Memorial Branch which is located on the western sideof South Portland. The libraries have free computer access, and printing
for a small fee. Programs at the Main Library include author talks,
Spanish language conversation groups, book groups, knitting groups,
and programs for children and teens.
https://southportlandlibrary.com

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Falmouth Memorial Library
5 Lunt Road, Falmouth (207) 781–2351
fmllibrary@falmouthmemoriallibrary.org
Hours: Mon 9:30am–5pm, Tues/Wed 9:30am–8pm,
Thurs–Sat 9:30am–5pm
Has books, DVDs, music CDs, large print books, audio books,
magazines, and more. They have public computers, laptops, andinternet access, as well as personal technology help.
https://www.falmouthmemoriallibrary.org/

How do I get a library card?
It’s easy and free. The library just wants to verify your nameand local address. If your photo ID shows your current local
address, that is all they need. Otherwise, bring a photo ID
and one document with your name and local address, or two
documents with your name and local address(mail, a bill, checkbook, or a lease) if you don’t have a photo
ID. If you live at a shelter, they will give you a letter to bringwith your ID to get a temporary card.
Where can I return my items?
Return means to give back an item you borrowed. You must
return items to the library you borrowed from. For example,
you cannot return a Portland Public Library book to the South
Portland Public Library. There are book drops located outsideeach location to return items after closing. Items returned after
closing will be checked in on the next business day.
How can I renew my items?
Renew means to ask for more time for an item you borrowed.
You may renew online at any time. You may also go to thelibrary or call them during business hours.
What happens if I return my items late?
There is a charge, called a library fee, for returning materials
after they are due. Therefore, it is very important that you
return the item by the day the library tells you. This fee can be$0.25–2.00/day depending on what you borrowed, and fromwhat library. If you lose or damage the item, you will be asked
to pay for it. It is important to talk to the library and arrange asystem to pay for the loss or damage.

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IMMIGRATION AND LEGAL SUPPORT­Initial Immigration Process (For Asylum Seekers)
If you are eligible for asylum, you may be allowed to stay in the UnitedStates. To apply for Asylum, you need to file a form within 12 months ofarriving in the United States.
Find out if you are eligible by visiting https://www.uscis.gov/humanitarian/
refugees-asylum/asylum/questions-and-answers-asylum-eligibility-andapplications
1. Fill out this form: https://www.uscis.gov/i-589 (Form I-589, Application
for Asylum and for Withholding of Removal) within 12 months ofarriving in the United States. There is no fee to apply for asylum.
2. If you are residing in Maine, send your application to:
Vermont Service Center
Attention: Asylum
75 Lower Welden Street St.
Albans, VT 05479–0589
United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS)
176 Gannett Drive, South Portland (207) 253–3000
The local office for the U.S. government that processes citizenship andimmigration requests. To speak with an immigration services officer, youmust schedule an appointment online: https://www.uscis.gov/about-us/
find-uscis-office/field-offices/maine-portland-field-office

Immigration Legal Support
Immigrant Legal Advocacy Project489 Congress Street, 3rd Floor, Portland (207) 780–1593 or 1 (800)
497–8505 info@ilapmaine.org
Offer immigration information and legal assistance. Free or low-cost to
low-income Maine residents. You are eligible for ILAP services if:• Your income is at or below 200% of the annual federal poverty
guidelines• You live in Maine• You need help with cases like Refugee issues, including permanent
residency, family reunification, and travel documents; Family based
immigration matters; Asylum; Domestic violence, trafficking, or crime
victim issues; Citizenship issues (applying for, or proving citizenship);Removal defense; Temporary Protected Status (TPS); Work permits;
Other matters where immigration status is an issue, such as access todriver’s licenses or public benefits.
Call to schedule an intake appointment: (207) 780–1593 ext. 100. (Ifyou call to make an intake appointment and no one is available at ILAP,
please leave your name and phone number, and they will call you back.)

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Know that ILAP cannot always serve everyone who needs help.
www.ilapmaine.org
Asylum, the manual on the asylum process,published by Maine Law and ILAP, provides a stepby-step guide to applying for asylum in the UnitedStates (U.S.) for individuals without lawyers. Thismanual is intended for individuals who are not inremoval (deportation) proceedings.
Available in English, French, Spanish, and Arabic at:https://ilapmaine.org/asylum-self-help
Maine Law and ILAP also have a video series that covers thedifferent aspects of the asylum process: https://mainelaw.maine.
edu/academics/clinics-and-centers/clac/refugee-and-human-rights/
advocacy-and-outreach/asylum-video-series/
USCIS Immigrant Outreach – Portland Public Library
5 Monument Square, Portland (207) 871–1700 ext. 725
USCIS holds a series of information and outreach sessions at thePortland Public Library each year. USCIS personnel provide general
information, case status updates, and answer questions about
naturalization, citizenship, asylum-refugee, permanent residency, andother topics. Call the library reference desk for dates and times.
Know Your Rights
Everyone has these constitutional rights, whether or not you are a
U.S. Citizen:• The right to remain silent when being questioned by a police officeror government agent.
• The right to be free from “unreasonable searches and seizures.”Your home or property cannot be searched without a warrant.
• The right to advocate for change. You have the right to freespeech.

LEGAL HELP FOR NON-IMMIGRATION MATTERS
Pine Tree Legal Assistance
88 Federal Street, Portland (207) 774–8211Offer free civil legal
assistance to enforce basic human rights, including access to housing,food, income, safety, education, and healthcare. Can also help with legal
advocacy, information about your rights, and community legal education.
https://ptla.org/

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Economic, Social and Civic Integration
Integrating into life in Maine includes entering the workforce,
continuing your education and career, and potentially buying ahome. You are also on a path of citizenship and civic engagement.
These activities take time, so keep referring back to this section.

ENTERING THE WORKFORCE
To work legally in the U.S. you will need authorization. Your immigration
status determines how you go about this. You will also need a Social
Security number (SSN), a unique number given to you by the Federal
government. Finally, a driver’s license (or some other form of I.D.) will benecessary.

Employment Authorization
As a Refugee:
If you entered the United States as a refugee, you are authorized for
employment as part of your refugee status. The port of entry where
you entered the country should have issued you a Form I–94, ArrivalDeparture Record, stamped to indicate “Employment Authorized.”
U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) will issue you an
Employment Authorization Document (EAD) either at the port of entry or
as soon as possible after your entry into the United States.
A refugee can apply for a Social Security card with the Form I–94 andan official government-issued identification document containing a photo(such as an unexpired foreign passport or driver’s license). Once you
have your Social Security card, you can use it to show your employer
that you are eligible to be employed. You can also use an EAD issued to
you by USCIS to prove your eligibility.
When you first apply for a job in the United States, your Form I–94 is
proof of your work authorization for up to 90 days. If you use your I–94
to prove eligibility, you are required to present to your employer otherevidence of eligibility within 90 days.
As Asylum Applicant:Yes! You are allowed to work in the U.S. as an asylum applicant. You
can work if:
1. You were granted asylum (or received “recommended approval” for a
grant of asylum), or
2. You applied for asylum at least 150 days ago and still have notreceived an initial decision on your asylum application.
If you want to work after the 150 days have passed, you need to file an“I–765, Application for Employment Authorization”. To access this form,

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go to the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services Website at www.
uscis.gov. Click on the Forms tab on the left, and then you can download
and print the I–765 Application from the list. The second PDF on thelist is detailed instructions that can help you complete the application.
Where you submit this form depends on your answer to Question 16,
but under the tab Where to File, it will bring you to a webpage with
instructions on finding the address. You should file to renew youremployment authorization 3-6 months before it expires.
As Asylum Granted (As an Asylee):If you have been granted asylum you are authorized for employment as
part of your status. An EAD will be issued to you after the Asylum Office,an immigration judge, or the Board of Immigration Appeals grants you
asylum.
You may also apply for a Social Security card with the asylum approval
notice or the Form I–94 that USCIS issued to you showing that you
have been granted asylum, along with an official government-issued
identification document containing a photo (such as an unexpired foreign
passport or driver’s license). Once you have your Social Security card,
you can also use it to show your employer that you are eligible to be
employed.
As a Green Card Holder:
You do not need to apply for an EAD if you are a lawful permanent
resident. Your Green Card (Form I–551, Permanent Resident Card) isevidence of your employment authorization.

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You arewelcome here.
Unum is proud to partner with the Immigrant Welcome Centerof Greater Portland. Thanks for all you do to support our
newest neighbors.

© 2019 Unum Group. All rights reserved. Unum is a registered trademark andmarketing brand of Unum Group and its insuring subsidiaries. NS19-073

Supporting Maine’s Economy
As a Business Partner
As a Philanthropic Leader
As an Employer
Employee Benefits

Business Insurance

Personal Insurance

Chad Cote(207) 523-2288

Ben Millick(207) 523-2281

Mona Freeman-Wilkinson(207) 523-2288

Clark is happy to offer New Mainers informational interviews in an effort to offer interview practice and leverage oursocial networks. Contact James at jbrissenden@clarkinsurance.com if interested. All are welcome!

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207.774.6257

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Social Security CardAll U.S. citizens have a social security number(SSN). Generally, the only non-citizens who canhave an SSN are non-citizens that are authorized
to work. Your employer and financial institution willneed your SSN for wage and tax reporting.
To Apply:
1. Go to Portland Social Security Office 550 Forest Ave Suite 150,
Portland2. Show them your current U.S. immigration documents and yourunexpired foreign passport. This is to prove your identity and workauthorized immigration status. Acceptable immigration documents
include your:• Form I–551 (Lawful Permanent Resident Card, Machine-Readable
Immigrant Visa)• Admission stamp showing a class of admission permitting work
• Form I–94 (Arrival/Departure Record) or Form I–766 (Employment
Authorization Document/EAD)
United States Social Security Administration
Want to learn more? This link will take you to the Social Security
website. You can click on the Multilingual Gateway that provides
information on social security in 17 different languages.
https://www.ssa.gov/people/immigrants/
TIP: Identity Theft
Identity theft is when your personal information is taken without yourpermission and used to steal from you or others. Personal information
are documents which prove who you are, such as your social security
card, driver’s license, credit card, and bank cards. With these
documents people could pretend they are you. They can take money outof your bank accounts, charge your credit card, or open false accounts
under your name.
To protect yourself:• Leave any cards you are not using in a secure place. Do not carrythem with you. This includes your social security card, and credit andbank cards.
• Be careful of giving out your personal information, such as your social
security number or bank account numbers. Identity thieves may makefake offers over email or phone.
• Keep your purse or wallet in a safe place at all times.
• Give your social security number only when necessary. Legitimate
uses may be related to banking or immigration. You may ask why it isneeded, how it will be used, and what will happen if you do not give it.

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Driver’s License
The Maine Bureau of Motor Vehicles (BMV), Portland Office
125 Presumpscot Street, Portland (207) 822–6400
Issues Maine driver’s licenses. Portland BMV is one of many locations
throughout the state of Maine.
To apply:• You will need a valid Social Security
number or Maine State ID card. You
must also prove that you currently livein Maine and have lived here for aminimum of 30 days.
• If you are undocumented, meaning
you do not have a legal visa or work
permit, you are not eligible for a Maine Driver’s license or State
identification card. Even if you have a driver’s license from anotherstate, Maine requires all applicants for driver’s licenses to prove they
are legally residing here. See this list of documents which proveeligibility: https://www.maine.gov/sos/bmv/licenses/noncitizen.html• To get a driver’s license, you will need to take 1) a driver knowledge
test 2) a road test, and 3) have a vision screening test. You will need
two forms of identification. The driver’s knowledge and vision tests
can be taken at any office of the BMV. When you are ready to takea road test, you need to mail the road test request card (found onlineat www.maine.gov/sos/bmv) to the Augusta BMV: 29 State House
Station, August, ME 04333
Parking Restrictions
Cities designate restrictions or rules for parking. Look for signs
posted with the time frame you are given permission to park for.
Some spots require you to pay a small fee: around $1/hour. There
may also be days of the week when parking is not allowed during
set blocks of time. The city reserves this time for maintaining thestreet. If you park for too long or where you are not allowed you
may get a parking ticket. A parking ticket is a fine that you owe tothe city. You can pay it online or in person at the city hall.
Parking in the Winter: “Snow Bans”
When it snows, cities remove the snow from the streets to makeroads safe for drivers. Snow bans are when the city restricts
parking to certain places in order to plow other places. If you parkon a section of street that is scheduled to be plowed, your car may
be towed off the street at a charge to you. The person who owns
the car is responsible for making sure their car is moved duringsnow bans.

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Snow bans usually start between 10pm to 12am and continue to
6am the following morning. You can find out if there is a snow ban
and where to park on the website of your city or town:

Portland

S. Portland

Westbrook

Falmouth

FINDING A JOB
Looking for and finding your first job can be difficult, especially in a new
country. There are different job markets, languages, and processes.
For help finding your way through this process go to local employment
support organizations. In Maine, “networking” is a good way to find work.
Once you find your first job, you will learn about worker’s rights andpaying taxes.

Employment Support
There is support for New Mainers to find jobs. Before applying forwork, you may want to talk to someone at the following organizations
to understand the local job market and how to best communicate yourskills and abilities. If you are not getting a response from employers ask
someone at these organizations to help you figure out why. To find a job,
you may ask friends and acquaintances. You may also look at websitesthat post jobs such as: Indeed.com, Careerbuilder.com, Craigslist.com,
Idealist.com, and Nonprofitmaine.org.
New Mainers Resource Center/Portland Adult Education
14 Locust Street, Portland (207) 874–8155 nmrcmaine@gmail.com
The New Mainers Resource Center (NMRC) works with Maine’s
immigrants to overcome barriers to employment. NMRC also works with
employers to help them hire and retain qualified workers. It does this byoffering a range of services targeted at skilled professionals including:• Career guidance and intensive case management• Intensive on-the-job English and workplace communication andculture classes• Connections to employers, informational sessions, job fairs• Assistance with credential review (determining “equivalency”) andprofessional licensing• Professional networking groups and support (Health, Finance, IT,

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Engineering, etc.)• Training on job search skills and assistance with job search process• English courses related to specific professions• Online computer tutorials and assistance with job search• Coordination with other training and service providers, volunteer
opportunities, internships, job shadows, mentoring, etc.
• Professional Clothes Closet with free business clothes for job
interviews or new jobs
• Other services as needed
https://nmrcmaine.org
FedCap Rehabilitation Services
220 Maine Mall Road, South Portland 1 (844) 562–0190
Offers services through Education, Workforce Development,
Occupational Health, and Economic Development—helping more than
100,000 individuals a year graduate from high school, obtain vocational
certification or a college degree, become work ready, obtain meaningfulemployment and achieve economic well-being.
http://www.fedcap.org/
Goodwill of Northern New England
190 Lancaster Street, Portland (207) 775–5891
At the Portland Workforce Services Office employment specialists canhelp you assess and match your interest to good jobs. Call them for
more information or visit their website. www.goodwillnne.org/workforce/
Maine Career Centers
151 Jetport Boulevard, Portland (207) 822–3300 or 1 (877) 594–5627
portland.careercenter@maine.gov
Provides a variety of free employment and training services to help youwith your job search. Also have computer lab for free use. You may callthem, go to the Center, or email them. You do not need an appointment.
www.mainecareercenter.gov
Staffing Agencies
Private employment agencies also help place workers, particularly inthe private sector. Companies like Manpower, Adecco Staffing, andPeopleReady are all agencies that can help place you in a job.

Networking
Networking is using who you know and people you meet to findopportunities and further your career. In Maine, relationships are a big
part of getting a job. Employers often hire someone they know andare comfortable with. You may ask people you know to be directed (areferral) to other people in your area of interest. There are also free or
low-cost professional networking meetings and organizations in Greater
Portland.

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Creative Portland
Portland (207) 370–4784 info@creativeportland.com
A local arts agency and nonprofit that grows Portland’s creative
industries, enterprises, and workforce. Their website lists several local
professional groups:
http://www.creativeportland.com/resources/professional-groups
2 Degrees Portland
A network of people who want to sustain and grow the city’s economy bywelcoming creators, innovators, entrepreneurs, and thinkers to the area.
Hold regular free networking events open to all.
http://www.creativeportland.com
Empower the Immigrant Women
Portland
Empower Conference: A yearly conference that honors and supports
immigrant women in our community.
Empower Maine Women Network: A network of diverse women
supporting each other through monthly meetings.
www.empowerimmigrantwoman.org/
Maine Association of Nonprofits
565 Congress Street, Suite 301, Portland (207) 871–1885
manp@nonprofitmaine.org
A membership organization that provides training, leadershipdevelopment and skill building programs as well as other forms of
support to Maine’s nonprofits. Host Meet-and-greets, a Nonprofit Job
Board, and list networks on their website:
http://www.nonprofitmaine.org/connect/networks-and-coalitions/Portland Professional Connections
Portland Professional Connections matches foreign-trained professionals
with established business people and community leaders, helping
newcomers build connections, learn about the local job market, andbuild their professional network.. This informal networking programis presented by the Portland Office of Economic Opportunity and
the Portland Regional Chamber of Commerce. For more informationor to register as a connector or a connectee, visit https://www.
portlandofopportunity.com/professional-connector-index.
PropelA networking organization supporting the employment of young
professionals. Host events, trainings, and peer ambassadors.
http://www.propelportland.org/
Tech Maine
An online platform that promotes activities, events, news, and resourcesthat support Maine’s technology community. Lists several networking
groups on their website:
http://www.techmaine.com/groups73TIP: Employee Benefits
When you are employed, learn about your employer’s benefits. Benefits
are perks offered to employees in addition to their paycheck. Dependingon the company, benefits may include health insurance, dental
insurance, vision care, life insurance, paid vacation leave, personalleave, sick leave, child care, fitness, a retirement plan, and other optional
benefits offered to employees and their families. However, not all jobs
offer benefits.
Life Insurance A life insurance policy is a contract with aninsurance company. In exchange for payments, the insurancecompany provides payment, known as a death benefit, tobeneficiaries upon the insured’s death. Beneficiaries are membersof your family, or someone else you choose to receive this payment
when you die. Check out this information by the State of Maine
about life insurance https://www.maine.gov/pfr/insurance/consumer/
individuals_families/life_annuities_viaticals/life_ins/index.html

Worker’s Rights
In the United States, all workers have the right to work in a safe
environment.
Employment Discrimination
Discrimination means unequal treatment. Workers have the right to work
free from discrimination based on race, gender, age, physical ability,
national origin, and/or sexual orientation.
Examples of discrimination:• Being denied a promotion due to your age, gender, race, etc.
• A woman paying more for health insurance than a male because she
could get pregnant• Being fired because you report employee discrimination
Who is protected against discrimination: Workers who work for
employers with fifteen or more workers are protected by federal law. If
you work for a smaller employer, you still have protections under Maine’s
Human Rights Act.
What to do if you think you are experiencing employee
discrimination: The first thing to do is to report it to your supervisor or
Human Resources Office. If they do not act, there are two places you
can turn to for help to seek an attorney to help you decide if there is aclaim:
Equal Employment Opportunity Commission
http://www.Eeoc.gov					

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Maine Human Rights Commission					http://www.maine.gov/mhrc/
www.maine.gov/portal/employment/rights.html
Note: A claim should be made with the Maine Human Rights
Commission no more than 300 days after the incident.
Workers Compensation
If you are working in the United States, you may have a right to help if
you are injured at work. This applies to both workers with immigration
papers and undocumented workers who do not have immigration
papers.
Who is covered by Workers’ Compensation: If you are a worker andyou are a documented immigrant, Workers’ Compensation can give you
the following protections:• Money for your work-related medical bill
• Wages while you are out of work
• Job protection when you return from the injury

If you are an undocumented immigrant, you may only receive money
for work-related medical bills

What to do to file for Workers’ Compensation: Workers who are
injured at work must begin by notifying their employer of the injury. Notify
them as soon as you can after the injury. From there, the employer
should start the compensation process.
Sexual Harassment
Sexual harassment is any unwelcome advances, requests, comments
or touching. While you are working in the United States you have theright to be free from sexual harassment.
ReportingFirst, you should report the sexual harassment to your supervisor. If thesupervisor does not act, or if your supervisor is the one discriminating
against you, then you should contact the agencies below:
Maine State Employee Rights and Services Resource
http://www.maine.gov/portal/employment/rights.html
			Maine Human Rights Commission					http://www.maine.gov/mhrc/
Note: A claim should be made with the Maine Human Rights
Commission no more than 300 days after the incident.

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Immigrant Worker Rights
If you are a legal immigrant, federal law states that employers cannot
discriminate against you because of your immigration status. Employers
cannot:• Fire you or refuse to hire you because of your immigration status or
because you are not a U.S. citizen• Require you to show a permanent resident card or reject your lawful
work papers• Prefer to hire undocumented workers• Discriminate against you because of your national origin or country oforigin• Retaliate against any employee who complains of the above
treatment• For more information about your rights or to file a complaint, callthe Office of Special Counsel at 1 (800) 255–7688. Interpreters areavailable. Visit www.usdoj.gov/crt/osc for more information.

Taxes
What are taxes and why do we pay them? The government provides
public goods and services for the community as a whole. To pay its
bills, the government needs a source of income. The money that the
government uses to pay its bills mostly comes from taxes. There aremany types of taxes, including income, Medicare, Social Security, sales,and property.
Taxes as an Employee: Federal and state income taxes are usuallytaken out (withheld) from each paycheck. When you start a new job,your employer will ask you to provide information on a Form W–4. This
information will help your employer determine how much federal andstate income tax to withhold from your wages.
Self Employed: Different tax rules apply to you if you are self-employed.
Go to www.irs.gov or call the Federal Tax Question hotline at 1 (800)829–1040 if you want additional information.
Income taxes are paid to the federal and most state governments
and are based on both earned (from working) and unearned (frominvestments) income.
Federal income taxes are used to fund national defense, veterans andforeign affairs; social programs; law enforcement; and interest on thenational debt.
Social Security and Medicare tax provide many benefits for employees
and their dependents. These include retirement benefits and benefits
for the disabled. Medicare tax provides medical benefits for someindividuals when they reach the age of 65.

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Sales taxes are determined by each state and are a percentage of thecost of the item purchased.
Property taxes are paid to the state or local governments based on thevalue of the property (home, car).

Filing a Tax Return
The United States income tax system relies on taxpayers to report theirincome, calculate what you owe, and file tax returns on time.
• In most cases, taxpayers are required to submit their tax returns
before midnight of April 15th each year. Tax payments must be
mailed before midnight of April 15th each year
• If you have an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number or Adoption
Taxpayer Identification Number, you cannot claim the earned income
tax credit• You need to keep copies of all of your tax return (Form 1040 andsupporting documents). Federal law requires you to maintain copiesof your tax returns and supporting documents for three years.
You file only one federal income tax return for the year, no matter how
many jobs you had, how many W–2 forms (a statement showing how
much your employer paid you and how much was withheld in taxes) you
received from employers or how many states you lived in during the year.
Individuals will file either Form 1040, Form 1040 A or Form 1040
EZ. Which form you file depends on your filing status and the types/
amounts of income, deductions and credits you report. These forms andschedules can be downloaded at www.irs.gov or you can call the forms
line at 1 (800) 829–3676 for more help.
To file a return is to send in your completed tax forms (return) to
the Internal Revenue Service, or the IRS. You can file your taxes
electronically or by mail to the Internal Revenue Service Center for yourarea. The mailing address will be on the back page of the Form 1040
Instructions.
Non-Resident Alien
If you are a non-resident alien, the rules and tax forms that apply to you
are different from those that apply to United States citizens and resident
aliens. To learn more, see https://www.irs.gov/pub/irs-pdf/p519.pdf on
www.irs.gov, or if you have questions, call 1 (800) 829–1040
to find out if United States income tax laws apply to you andwhich forms you should file.
Look at these tax tips from Pine Tree Legal Assistance tofind free help: https://www.ptla.org/tax-tips

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CAREER ADVANCEMENT
For a first job you may not be very selective. For your second job,however, you may want a better fit for your skill set and experienceor a higher wage. So in the meantime, you may want to update yourprofessional credentials through recertification or through higher
education opportunities. You may retrain yourself to enter into a new
field or start a new business. Whatever stage you are in, keep yourprofessional goals in mind and make use of local resources.

Recertification
If you have been trained in another country, it is likely that you may
encounter obstacles to practice professionally in the United States.
Many jobs require certifications from the city or state that can take lots oftime and money.
The National Association of Credential Evaluation Services is anassociation of independent, non-governmental associations that provide
credential evaluation to those who have completed some or all of theeducation outside of the United States. Their website lists organizations
that can evaluate your credentials:
http://www.naces.org/members.html

New Mainers Resource Center/Portland Adult Education
14 Locust Street, Portland (207) 874–8155 nmrcmaine@gmail.com The
New Mainers Resource Center (NMRC) provides assistance withcredential review (determining “equivalency”) and professional licensing.
https://nmrcmaine.org

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Higher Education Opportunities
The U.S. job market has limited opportunities for people with a HighSchool diploma, or, in other words, people who have graduated only fromsecondary school. Higher education and university, often called college
in the U.S. can open more doors and lead to a higher salary. Financial
Aid is available through the U.S. Government (FAFSA or FAME). In
addition, there may be scholarships for New Mainers at colleges anduniversities.
Portland Adult Education
14 Locust Street, Portland (207) 874–8155
New Mainers can register for Portland Adult Education’s many classes
and programs including English and College Transitions, and HiSET(High School Diploma program).
http://portlandadulted.org/
Southern Maine Community College (SMCC)
2 Fort Road, South Portland (207) 741–5500
This is Maine’s largest community college, with over 7,000 students,
more than 45 degree programs, and the lowest tuition and fees in New
England.
https://www.smccme.edu/
University of New England (UNE)716 Stevens Avenue, Portland (207) 283–0171
Located on the coast of Maine, UNE is an independent university
committed to academic excellence.
https://www.une.edu/
University of Southern Maine (USM)
88 Bedford Street, Portland (207) 780–5670 admitusm@maine.edu
Multi-campus public university and part of the University of Maine
System.
Speakers of Other Languages (ESOL) Program:
Excellent higher education instruction in academic English
to culturally diverse students. Some take English language
courses as prerequisites for future academic courses, whileothers want to improve their English language skills forwork or personal satisfaction. Visit their website or email
usmesol@maine.edu for more information.
https://usm.maine.edu/esol
http://usm.maine.edu/prospective-students

79MONEY AND PERSONAL FINANCES
Banking
Banks accept deposits from customers, raise “capital” from investors
or lenders, and then use that money to make loans, buy securities andprovide other financial services to customers. The advantages of putting
money in a bank are:• Convenience• Earning interest on your money• Helps build your credit rating• You can send money home
• Your money is safe from theft• You may take out a loan and use other bank services
There are two common types of accounts:• Savings Account: Deposit money and keep it safe. Earns yourmoney interest, money paid regularly to you for the money you arelending.
• Checking Account: Allows you to buy things in stores or makeonline payments with a debit card. You can also make payments bycheck with this type of account. Most checking accounts do not earninterest.

Bank Cards and ATM Machines
When you join a bank, you receive a plastic
card, called an ATM Card, and a Personal
Identification Number, or your PIN. With thisPIN, you have access to your account in many
locations 24 hours a day. ATMs are affiliatedwith certain banks located all throughout
Greater Portland and allow you to withdraw
money from them at any time. You can use
ATMs that are affiliated with different banks but there is often an
extra charge. When you open a checking account, your bank will
give you a card called a Debit Card. You can use this card to pay forgoods and services in many stores as well as online. The amount
you spend will be taken directly out of your checking account.

Opening an AccountIn order to open a bank account there is specific information that thebanks will need.

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1. A confirmation of your name and birth, and you can use one of thefollowing to do this:• Unexpired passport• Government-issued driver’s license (including foreign licenses)• Consular ID• Birth certificate
2. To confirm your address, use a utility bill, lease, or current driver’s
license or municipal ID.
3. An identification number, which can be one of the following:• Social Security Number (SSN)• Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN)• Alien identification card number• Any other government-issued document that proves your 		nationality or residence, such as a passport or driver’s license

Our tellers agreat listene

TIP: Normal banking hours are Monday–Friday from 9–5, andsome banks have hours open on the weekends.

Online Banking: Many banks now offer online platforms and apps
to make managing your money even more convenient.

The future is yours
and we’re excited
to help you
get there.
cPortCU.org
1-800-464-0253
Federally insured by NCUA

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Individual Development AccountAn individual development account is a savings account with apotential match. For each deposit that you make, you can receive
matching funds. These funds can be used to buy a home, start abusiness, attend college, etc.
Coastal Enterprises, Inc (CEI)

2 Portland Fish Pier, Suite 201, Portland (207) 535–2919 or (207) 504–5900

Offer people with low-incomes financing, business and industry
expertise, and advocacy through public policy.

Individual Development Accounts: Offer one-to-one match if you:
• Are a refugee, asylee, Cuban or Haitan, victim of trafficking, orAmerasian• Have income from a job that is within program guidelines, and• Have less than $10,000.00 in net assets (not including your home andone car)
Program requirements:• Save money for a minimum of six months• Attend a free 12-hour group financial education training
https://www.ceimaine.org/consulting/business-counseling-development/
startsmart/individual-development-account/www.ceimaine.org

•
•
•

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ProsperityME
309 Cumberland Avenue, Suite 205 Portland (207) 797–7890
ProsperityME provides financial education courses to those who arebrand new to the American financial system and to those who require amore in-depth knowledge of the tools needed to attain financial stability.
Our multilingual financial counselors can assist with your unique needs
as a newcomer. Courses and counseling sessions are free of charge toimmigrants, refugees, asylees and others with low-income. Also assist
asylees with matching savings funds in partnership with CEI.
www.prosperityme.org
Citizenship Loan: Some banks, such as CPort Credit Union andInfinity Credit Union offer a loan for citizenship just as they do forbuying a car or a home and getting higher education and training.
When you receive a loan of an amount of money you are charged aninterest rate. This is an amount of money that must be paid monthly
as long as you are borrowing the loan.

TIP: Building Credit
To get a mortgage or other loan in the U.S. your “credit” matters. Your
credit score is a grade you are given for the likeliness you will pay backthe money you owe. You can build your credit score in many ways. The
first step is often to get a credit card. You may also be able to get credit
for the rent you pay. Ask your bank about credit-builder loans and otherways to increase your credit score.
For help rebuilding your credit, enroll in a StartSmart program:
Coastal Enterprises, Inc (CEI)
2 Portland Fish Pier, Suite 201, Portland (207) 535–2919
startsmart@ceimaine.org
StartSmart Program: A free business development program thathelps immigrants start or grow a business. Interpreters are available.
Download brochure in English, Spanish, Somali, Arabic, and French at:https://www.ceimaine.org/advising/business-counseling-development/
startsmart/www.ceimaine.org

Home Buying
If you plan to stay in Greater Portland you may consider buying a home.
A mortgage is the amount of money you pay per month on the amountof a housing loan. A mortgage can be less than renting. Buying a homealso is an investment. If the value of your house goes up, you will earnmoney when you sell it.

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Home Ownership Education
The Maine State Housing Authority partners with organizations toprovide classes to assist first-time home-buyers negotiate and manage
the purchase of their home. Classes are offered in the evenings andweekends throughout the year. Visit www.mainehomeworks.org toregister for 10 homebuyer education classes. They are $30 per person,$50 per couple. If you aren’t able to attend in person, they also have
online workshops available.
The class covers:• Budgeting to buy a home
• Credit score and credit report• Shop for a mortgage loan
• Finding the right home
• Inspect before you buy• Home mortgage loan process• Loan closing process and expenses• Being a homeownerThis online guide aims to help persons of low income gain anunderstanding of the options available when it comes to finding
affordable housing and getting a mortgage:
MortgageLoan.com
CPort Credit Union
1 (800) 464–0253
Portland Locations:• 50 Riverside Industrial Parkway (207) 878–6200• 285 Forest Avenue (207) 200–2300
Offers a free Beginner’s Guide for Home buying workshop.
www.cportcu.org
Portland Adult Education
14 Locust Street, Portland (207) 874–8155
Offer First-Time Homebuyer Seminars where students learn the steps
to home ownership, including information about low interest rates andprices, and low and no down payment lending programs. Even if you
believe that you are currently in no position to buy a home, this will help
you put a plan in place.
www.portlandadulted.org
Habitat for Humanity
659 Warren Avenue, Portland (207) 772–2151 info@habitatme.org
Builds communities of new energy efficient homes, with affordable
financing. Also run the Restore store with low-cost furniture and building
materials.
Home Ownership Program: A program which enables families to buy
homes with affordable monthly payments, including subsidized financing.
Families invest ~$2,000 to pay for closing costs and volunteer ~275

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hours of sweat-equity to help build their own home, as well as the homesof other Habitat families.
To apply:
1. Find out if you are financially eligible. Have a minimum income of$30,000 and a maximum income based on the family size listed online:
http://habitatportlandme.org/index.php/info/Qualifying-for-a-Home
2. Call or email homeownership@habitatme.org to schedule aninterview.
3. Go through an extensive screening process that determines eligibility
based on three basic criteria:• Need of decent, stable and affordable housing• Willing to collaborate to build their home
• Demonstrate the ability to pay by meeting our financial
requirements
http://habitatportlandme.org/index.php/info/Home-OwnershipFirst Home Loan Program
Maine State Housing Authority
353 Water Street, Augusta (207) 626–4600
A program for first time home buyers to make it easier and more
affordable to buy a home of your own. They provide low fixed interest
rate mortgages and options for little or no down payment.
www.mainehousing.org

Starting a Business
Immigrants are more than twice as likely to start a business than theirnative-born counterparts. There are many processes to consider whenstarting your own business. These organizations can help.
Coastal Enterprises, Inc (CEI)
2 Portland Fish Pier, Suite 201, Portland (207) 535–2919
startsmart@ceimaine.org
StartSmart Program: A free business development program that helps
immigrants start or grow a business. Offer:• Expert Advice: evaluate your business idea, develop a businessplan, review location choices, help identify sources of financing,organize your bookkeeping, strengthen marketing and advertising• Financing: rebuild your credit, apply for a business loan, invest in amatched savings account• Legal and Regulatory Requirements: permits and licenses, taxes,
insurance
Interpreters are available. Download brochure in English, Spanish,
Somali, Arabic, and French at: https://www.ceimaine.org/advising/business-counseling-development/startsmart/www.ceimaine.org

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The City of Portland’s Economic Development Department
389 Congress Street, Room 308, Portland (207) 874–8683
edc@portlandmaine.gov
This department can support your business growth in Portland by helping
with:• Finding a site location• Permitting, regulatory and licensing guidance• Business technical assistance• City commercial loan programs• Job creation grants• Tax increment financing
Check out their “Guide to Doing Business in Portland”
or visit their website for more information. http://www.
portlandmaine.gov/485/Economic-Development
The Greater Portland Immigrant Welcome Center (IWC)
24 Preble Street, 3rd & 4th Floor, Portland (207) 517–3401
info@welcomeimmigrant.org
Business Hub: Program designed to help immigrants start businesses.
Offer networking, mentoring, and free co-working space.
www.welcomeimmigrant.org
New Ventures Maine
175 Main Street, South Portland (207) 621–3440 or (207) 799–5025
info@newventuresmaine.org
Helps Maine people succeed in their jobs, businesses, and communities.
They offer classes on starting a business, managing your money, andbuilding your career. Some classes are specifically designed for New
Mainers.
https://newventuresmaine.org
Portland Public Library
5 Monument Square, Portland (207) 871–1700 ext. 725
The main branch of PPL hosts free monthly Business Data Workshops
to assist people in finding in-depth information to help launch or grow abusiness. Call the reference desk for dates and times.

CIVIC ENGAGEMENT
Civic Engagement is taking action to address issues of public concern.
This is key part of being a democracy. There are many ways to be
civically active. City council, school board, and other public meetings
set aside time for the public to speak. You may tell them about what
is important to you. You may write to newspapers who may choose to
publish your opinion. You may run for office. Once you get citizenship,voting is an obvious first step to affect the issues you care about.

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EXAMPLES OF CIVIC ENGAGEMENT
CIVIC

ELECTORAL

POLITICAL VOICE

Community problem solving

Regular voting

Contacting officials

Regular volunteering for a
non-electoral organization

Persuading others to voteContacting the print media

Active membership in a group or
association

Displaying buttons, signs,
stickers

Contacting the broadcast media

Participation in fund-raising
run/walk/rideCampaign contributions

Other fund-raising for charity

Volunteering for candidate orpolitical organizations

Run for Political officeSymbolic Non-Participation

Protesting
Email petitions

Registering voters

Written petitions andcanvassing
Boycotting

Adapted from: Keeter, Scott; Cliff Zukin; Molly Andolina; Krista Jenkins (2002-09-19). “The civic and political health of a nation: agenerational portrait” (PDF). Center for Information & Research on Civic Learning & Engagement.

MAINE INITIATIVES STANDS WITH

NEW MAINERS
IN OURCOMMUNITY

MAINEINITIATIVES.ORG

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Portland Empowered(207) 807–4283
Provides leadership opportunities for high school students and works topromote equal opportunities for all students in Portland Public Schools.
Youth Engagement Partners: Youth from Portland’s three public highschools who organize within their schools and district-wide to coconstruct the future of high school education in Portland.
Parent Engagement Partners: Parents, grandparents, siblings, alumni,
teachers, administrators, and community members who organize toensure that parent voice is authentically incorporated into decision
making in Portland’s three public high schools
Run by the Muskie School of Public Service at the University of SouthernMaine. https://www.facebook.com/portlandempowered/https://www.portlandempowered.org/

CitizenshipOnce you get asylum, you have one year to apply for a Green
Card. Once you have a Green Card you have five years to apply for
Citizenship. The Citizenship process includes is an application, aninterview, and a test of English and civics. There are local resources tohelp you prepare.
Portland Public Library
Main Branch 5 Monument Square, Portland (207) 871–1700
reference@portlandpubliclibrary.org
Offers free Immigration Outreach. Officers from the USCIS field office inSouth Portland provide status updates, general information and answer
question. Also have free immigration resources, such as books and an
online program, that assist you in your application process.
Greater Portland Immigrant Welcome Center
24 Preble Street 3rd and 4th Floor, Portland (207) 517–3401
info@welcomeimmigrant.org
Citizenship Initiative: Identify immigrants eligible for Citizenship,
determine the barriers preventing them from applying for Citizenship, andprovide assistance through education and finance. Call or come to theoffice if you would like support with the Citizenship process.
http://www.welcomeimmigrant.org/

VotingCitizenship comes with rights and responsibilities, one of which is voting.
You may register to vote after your swearing-in ceremony or at yourlocal city hall anytime. The U.S. is a representative government. Thismeans we elect people into office who best represent our interests andconcerns. As a democracy, everyone has influence. Your vote matters.

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Greater Portland Immigrant Welcome Center
24 Preble Street 3rd and 4th Floor, Portland (207) 517–3401
info@welcomeimmigrant.org
Voting Initiative: Designed to educate immigrants about the importanceof participating in the democratic process at all levels of government,
ensure they are registered to vote and turn out to vote. Offer voter
registration and civic education workshops. During elections, run voting
drives helping with encouragement, translation, and transportation.
http://www.welcomeimmigrant.org/
League of Women Voters of Maine (LWVME)(207) 622-0256 lwvme@gwi.net
LWVME engages and informs voters, provides advocacy trainings, works
for smooth and clean elections, is committed to reforming the country’s
campaign finance system, and does many other things to “empower
voters and defend democracy”.
http://www.lwvme.org/

435 Congress Street
Portland, ME 04101(207) 774-8408
Custom Design and Alterations for Men and Women
Suits and Formal Wear Sales and Rentals

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Appendix

SAFETY & EMERGENCY
Reporting Crimes
If you see a crime in progress or need to report an emergency, you may
call 911 immediately. To report a crime, such as a stolen item, go to yournearest police station.
Emergencies
In the case of an emergency, you must call 911 before doing anythingelse. You can call this number from any land line or charged cell phone
as long as there is a signal.
Someone will answer your call and take your information while they send
emergency responders to your location. This is an emergency number
only and should not be used otherwise. If you must reach authorities in a
non-emergency, see the phone numbers below.
• Portland Police Non-Emergency: (207) 874–8479• South Portland Police Non-Emergency: (207) 874–8575
Confidential Tips: Text (207) 347–4100• Westbrook Police Department: (207) 854–0644, ext. 0
Confidential Tips: Call (207) 591–8117.
• Falmouth Police Department: (207) 781–2300

Emergency vs. Non-Emergency?
9–1–1 is the number to call for police, fire, or medical emergencies
when immediate action is required. Somebody’s health, safety or
property is in danger or a crime is being committed. Examples ofthis are hearing gunshots or a fire in progress.
Call the non-emergency number in your town for situations wherean immediate response or dispatch of the police is not required.
Examples would be reporting a crime with no suspect, or a noisy
party.

Anonymous Tips
If you see something that may be illegal, the Portland Police
Department invites you to tell them, anonymously. Anonymouslymeans the lines are not traced: you can give information withoutanyone knowing it was you. You can give anonymous information
about a crime by texting or calling:
Text-A-Tip: Text “GOTCHA” plus your message to 274637(CRIMES) Portland only
Call in a Tip: Dial (207) 874–8584

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Poison Control

If you think someone may have eaten or drank something toxic or
poisonous, call the American Association of Poison Control Centers at
1(800) 222–1222, available 24 hours a day. If the victim has collapsed or
is not breathing, call 911 for an ambulance.

Fire Safety

Take steps so a fire doesn’t start accidentally.
• Always be aware of potential fire hazards in your home, anything that
increase the chances of a fire starting: towels or curtains hanging
too close to an unattended stove, high cooking temperatures, a dirty
stove, exposed light bulbs, damaged wires, flammable materials close
to a fireplace, unattended candles or heating appliances, dryer lint
accumulation, and smoking indoors.
• Check that all electrical appliances, cords and outlets are in goodcondition and that there is not too much plugged into one outlet.
• Do not let children play with fire.
• Keep bedding, curtains and other combustible items at least threefeet, or one meter, away from space heaters.
• Place at least one smoke alarm on each level of your home and inhalls outside bedrooms. If you are renting, your landlord is required
to provide smoke alarms. Smoke alarms can be purchased at homeor hardware stores. Smoke alarms have batteries that need to bechanged regularly.
Have a rehearsed escape plan from every room in the house.
In the event of a fire, call 911 and leave the house immediately!

Child Safety
Car Seats

There are strict laws in the U.S. about using child safety seats because
car accidents are a leading cause of death of children here. Maine’sChild Passenger Safety (CPS) law says:• Children under 40 lbs. must ride properly secured in a child safetyseat.
• Children between 40–79 lbs. who are less than 8 yrs. old must ridesecured in an approved child restraint system.
• Children taller than 4 feet 9 inches who no longer use a child restraint
system must wear a seat belt.
• Children under 12 yrs. old who weigh less than 100 lbs. must be
secured in the rear seat of the vehicle, if possible.
In addition to these laws, The National Highway Traffic Safety
Administration (NHTSA) recommends a few other considerations forchild passenger safety:• Children less than 12 months old should always ride in a rear-facingseat.
• Rear-facing car seats are best until a child reaches the top height orweight limit permitted by a car seat’s maker.

91• A shoulder belt should lie snug across the shoulder and chest, notcross the neck or face. Use a booster seat if necessary.
• Children should ride in the backseat to avoid injury caused in theairbag deployment zone.
https://www.faleslaw.com/car-seat-safety-laws.html

Leaving a Child Alone in U.S.
When can children in the U.S. be left alone or alone with siblings?
Depending on the laws and child protective policies in your area, leaving
a young child unsupervised may be considered neglect, especially
if doing so places the child in danger. Neglect is when a parent,
intentionally or unintentionally, raises the possibility of harm for a childsuch that intervention by the community is needed. Not using a proper
car safety seat is an example.
Maine does not give an exact age for leaving your child alone. Laws
in other states are that a child has to be 8–10 years old. For leaving achild alone with siblings, some states suggest age 12. Ultimately, it is theparents who knows the level of responsibility a child is capable of. Hereare some guidelines:• Have the child memorize his or her full name, address, and telephone
number.
• Post a list of emergency, local, and long distance numbers to call inthe event of an emergency.
• Inform immediate neighbors that your child may be home alone onsome days. Not only can a neighbor be a good resource in the eventof an emergency, it can help alleviate potential calls to child protective
services by unaware neighbors.
• Call the child at several times during the day while you are away.
• Teach the child how to work the locks on windows and doors and tolock them when at home.
• Tell the child not to go into other people’s home (even neighbors)without your permission.
• Designate a “safe house” to run to if the child ever feels that he or she
is in danger.
• Never allow a child to work the oven or stove without a parent or adultcaretaker.
• Consider programs offered by schools, organizations, and churches
for extended periods of home alone time. See the “Out-of-SchoolTime” Section of this Guide.
https://family.findlaw.com/parental-rights-and-liability/when-can-youleave-a-child-home-alone-.html
Anyone who babysits for your children should know:• How to use a telephone to call 911 in case of emergency.
• What to do in case of a fire. Practice your escape plan.
• How to reach an adult if there is an emergency.
• How to call Poison Center if needed: 1 (800) 222–1222

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DIRECTORY OF ORGANIZATIONS & COMMUNITY GROUPS
Organizations For New Mainers
These organizations, and the programs listed, support New Mainers inmany ways.
The Greater Portland Immigrant Welcome Center (IWC)
24 Preble Street, 3rd & 4th Floor, Portland (207) 517–3401
info@welcomeimmigrant.org
The IWC would like to see immigrants excel economically as they
integrate into the fabric of Maine. To make that possible, the IWC has
invested in:• iEnglish Project: A Digital Language Lab, a web-based learningand teaching platform to serve working adults with industry specificlanguage training. Powered by the platform Voxy.
• Immigrant Business Hub designed to help immigrants startbusinesses.
• Citizenship and Civic Engagement to ensure immigrants areengaged in the democratic process.
www.welcomeimmigrant.org
Catholic Charities Maine Refugee and Immigration Services (RIS)80 Sherman Street, Portland (207) 871–7437
Catholic Charities is a large organization with many programs serving
all Mainers. They run the Maine Refugee and Immigration Services(RIS), Maine’s only refugee resettlement program. RIS offers a range ofservices to refugees. RIS also helps asylees (asylum seekers who havereceived their asylum documents).
• Case management: Basic needs, orientation, referrals, and a rangeof other support for up to 60 months from date of granted asylum.
• Elder Services: Support refugees and asylees age 60 and older
connect to the community.
• Employment Services: Support all aspects of employment searches,
including help with creating a resume, completing job applications,job interviewing skills, understanding the work culture in the USA, andconnecting you with other employment resources in the community.
• Legal Services: Support refugees with Affidavit of Relationship(AOR), I–730s and Green card applications.
www.ccmaine.org/refugee-immigration-services
New Mainers Resource Center/Portland Adult Education
14 Locust Street, Portland (207) 874–8155 nmrcmaine@gmail.com
The New Mainers Resource Center (NMRC) works with Maine’s
immigrants to overcome barriers to employment. NMRC also works with
employers to help them hire and retain qualified workers. It does this byoffering a range of services targeted at skilled professionals including:• Career guidance and intensive case management• Intensive on-the-job English and workplace communication and cultureclasses93• Connections to employers, informational sessions, job fairs• Assistance with credential review (determining “equivalency”) andprofessional licensing• Professional networking groups and support (Health, Finance, IT,
Engineering, etc.)• Training on job search skills and assistance with job search process• English courses related to specific professions• Online computer tutorials and assistance with job search• Coordination with other training and service providers, volunteer
opportunities, internships, job shadows, mentoring, etc.
• Professional Clothes Closet with free business clothes for job
interviews or new jobs
• Other services as needed
NMRC participants also take advantage of the other classes andprograms offered at Portland Adult Education, such as English and Job
Skills classes, the Computer Learning Lab, College Transitions and
HiSET (High School Diploma program) and by community partners.
https://nmrcmaine.org
Portland Adult Education
14 Locust Street, Portland (207) 874–8155
New Mainers can also register for Portland Adult Education’s manyother classes and programs including high school credentials, computer
courses, a language lab, and college preparation.
http://portlandadulted.org/
Amjambo Africa! Ladder to the Moon Network
24 Preble Street, Portland (207) 517–3402
georges@laddertothemoonnetwork.org
A monthly newspaper that communicates in English, Swahili, French,and Kinyarwanda to profile New Mainers and educate Mainers about thehistory and culture of people from Africa.
http://www.laddertothemoonnetwork.org/newspaper.html
Cultivating Community
62 Elm Street, Suite 1, Portland (207) 761–4769
info@cultivatingcommunity.org
Refugee and Immigrant Farmer Training: A program which helps New
Americans of all ages learn sustainable farming practices and connect tothe local food economy to sell the food they grow.
https://www.cultivatingcommunity.org/
Empower the Immigrant Women
Portland
Empower Conference: A yearly conference that honors and supports
immigrant women in our community.
Empower Maine Women Network: A network of diverse women
supporting each other through monthly meetings.
www.empowerimmigrantwoman.org/

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Hope Acts; Hope House
14 Sherman Street, Portland (207) 274–6005 carolyn@hopeacts.org
Hope House: Offers housing for single adult asylum seekers. 13
bedrooms in 5 apartments temporarily house asylum seekers and assist
in their search for more permanent housing. Those interested in living at
Hope House should call, email, or come in to fill out an application.
ASAP Program: help asylum seekers access medical services, findhousing, complete job applications, and navigate local resources inGreater Portland. ASAP offers one-on-one assistance from social work
interns Monday through Thursday from noon to 3pm, by appointment orwalk in. For more information, call or email.
ESL Classes: Provide beginner and intermediate English classes
focused on written and spoken language instruction.
https://hopeacts.org/immigrant-support/hopehouse/hope-houseprogram/
Immigrant Legal Advocacy Project (ILAP)
489 Congress Street, 3rd Floor, Portland (207) 780–1593 or 1 (800) 497–
8505 info@ilapmaine.org
Provide free and low-cost immigration information and legal assistanceto low-income Maine residents. Serve individuals whose cases involve
issues like asylum and refugee concerns including permanent residency,
family reunification, travel documents, domestic violence, and temporary
protected status.
http://www.ilapmaine.org/
Immigrant Resource Center of Maine (IRCM)
265 Lisbon Street Suite 2 (2nd Floor), Lewiston or 24 Preble Street 3rd
Floor, Portland (207) 753–0061 info@ircm.org
Promotes the empowerment of immigrants and a multi-culturalenvironment by serving as cultural brokers, barrier reducers, skill
enhancers, and problem solvers. Some of their many programs include:• Monthly community education workshops for newly arrived refugees,
secondary migrants, and asylum seekers in Portland and Lewistonand Auburn.
• A New Mainers Domestic Violence Partnership to provide educationand create community responses to domestic and sexual violence.
• Post-resettlement services ranging from language service to job
trainings.
• Cultural presentations and workshops for service providers andcommunity members throughout the state.
• Community conversations and dialogues, including Youth to YouthDialogues (between youth new to the US and those whose families
have been here for a long time) and Police Youth Dialogues toincrease trust between police and youth.
https://www.ircofmaine.org/

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In Her Presence(207) 347–9891 contact@inherpresence.org
Hold trainings and workshops relating to education, health, leadership,
entrepreneurship, English language acquisition, and more to connect andempower immigrant women and girls.
https://inherpresence.org/
Maine Immigrant Rights Coalition
24 Preble Street, 3rd Floor, Portland (207) 517–3404
A coalition of over 50-member organizations who collaborate to improve
the legal, social, and economic conditions of Maine’s immigrants.
https://www.maineimmigrantrights.org
New Mainers Tenants’ Association
sonia@newmainersTA.org
Help establish housing justice for New Mainers through programs,
advocacy, and tenant organizing.
Housing Orientation Program: Classes for New Mainers to learn abouthousing in the U.S. and understand their rights as tenants.
Housing Ambassadors Program: Support individuals to represent New
Mainers and advocate on their behalf for housing rights.
https://newmainersta.org
City of Portland Office of Economic Opportunity (OEO)
389 Congress Street, Portland jtrujillo@portlandmaine.gov
OEO is responsible for implementing and overseeing a Strategic Planfor Inclusion for the City of Portland. They convene and leverage public
and private partners to assure communication and collaboration so that
racially & ethnically diverse communities, including immigrants, and other
underserved populations have access to jobs, related support services,and other economic opportunities. They strive to foster a strong senseof belonging by cultivating Economic Inclusion, Cultural/Social Inclusion,
Civic Inclusion & Welcome-ability.
https://www.portlandofopportunity.com/
ProsperityME: The Center for Financial Education
309 Cumberland Avenue, Portland (207) 797–7890
ProsperityME empowers, through education and counseling, membersof refugee and immigrant communities to invest in themselves to build
financial stability, careers, businesses and wealth. PME is the only
immigrant organization that provides financial education specifically toimmigrants, refugees and asylees and asylum seekers. They:• Provide financial group education, financial counseling and coaching• Serve asylum seekers with scholarships for higher education (pays up
to 5,000 per students who are ineligible for any state or federal aid topursue their dream career)• Assist newly arrived asylum seekers with security deposits for housing• Provide business assistance for start-ups and workshops on careerdevelopment• Assist asylees with matching savings funds in partnership with CEI
www.prosperityme.org

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Women United Around the World
Portland info@womenunitedaroundtheworld.org
Help female immigrants adjust to living in a new place. Offer welcome
packets, professional industrial sewing classes, and leadershipdevelopment programs.
www.womenunitedaroundtheworld.org/
Helpful Links
Matches unaccompanied minors with potential guardians and safe
housing. The organization also enlists a volunteer attorney to help filea guardianship petition in preparation for filing an immigration petition.
Email Lucky Hollander at lucky.hollander@gmail.com or Toby Hollander
at thollander33@yahoo.com.
Welcoming Immigrants Network (WIN) of Greater Portland
A group of individual people and organizations that meets monthly tooffer help to immigrants. Email Cush Anthony at cush@maine.rr.com or
Lucky Hollander at lucky.hollander@gmail.com. https://www.facebook.
com/ImmigrantSupportNetworkGreaterPortlandMaine/

Community Organizations by Ethnicity
Groups of immigrants have come to Maine from all over the world. Many
have created organizations that offer a sense of belonging and support.
Angolan Community of Maine
Brings Angolan people together in their new home in Maine.
https://www.facebook.com/Angolan-community-ofMaine-530314953829703/
Burundi Community Association of Maine
Brings Burundian people together in their new home in Maine.
https://www.facebook.com/Burundi-Community-Association-ofMaine-642770582437166/
Congolese Community of Maine (COCOMAINE)(207) 807–2256 cocomaine2012@gmail.com
Helps integration of Congolese people and assist them during theirtransition to life in Maine. Promotes Congolese culture through eventsand forums. https://www.facebook.com/Congolese-Community-ofMaine-201848326560842/
Mano en Mano
2 Portland Fish Pier, Suite 302, Portland (207) 546–3006
info@manomaine.org
Supports the Spanish-speaking communities in Southern and Midcoast
Maine through:• A drop-in resource center• Community orientations and connections to local services such as
employment, housing, and food
• Home visitation97• Case management• Educational programming to ensure migrant students reach academic
standards• Scholarships for higher education
https://www.manomaine.org/
New England Arab American Organization
PO Box 1812, Portland (207) 347–0249 or (207) 409–1079
info@neaao.org
Acts as a bridge between Arab Americans and the American culture withservices such as:• Parenting groups• Workshops on topics like health and leadership• Community support groups
www.neaao.org
Rwanda Community Association of Maine(207) 699–8870 info.rwandansinme@gmail.com
Provides integration guidance and support to Rwandan immigrants in
Maine.
Somali Community Center
68 Bishop Street, Suite 2, Portland Somalicommunityme@gmail.com
Supports the Somali Community in Maine through:• Community dialogues between Muslim women and native Mainers• Sewing and alteration classes• A Somali youth soccer team• Youth leadership building retreats
https://somalicenter.org/
Somali Bantu Community Association of Maine, Lewiston
145 Pierce Street, Suite 101, Lewiston (207) 784–5556
Helps the Somali Bantu community transition to life in Maine through avariety of educational and empowerment programs. Programs include:• Farming assistance• Basket weaving• Conflict resolution programming• Health educationwww.sbcmala.org
South Sudanese Community of Maine
Brings South Sudanese people together in their new home in Maine.
https://www.facebook.com/SSCofMaine/

Religious Groups
Some community groups who support New Mainers have religious
connections. Churches, synagogues, mosques, and other religious
institutions are a place to find spiritual support and community. They may
also offer to help with transportation, community connections, and otherkinds of support. Most religious groups offer child care during services.

98Note: Many religious groups are welcoming New Mainers in theircongregations and providing supportive programs and services. The
groups listed here are a representation.
MuslimIslamic Society of Portland
73 Portland Street, Portland (207) 842–5953
Established in 1999 to provide religious support for the fast-growing
immigrant community in Portland.
Maine Muslim Community Center/Masjid Bilaal
118 Anderson Street, Portland (207) 797–6626 masjidbilaal@gmail.com
Helps organize the Muslims of Portland and the surrounding
communities, and to welcome the new Muslims to Islamic environments
by Islamic education and counseling.mainemuslims.com
JewishCongregation Bet Ha’am
81 Westbrook Street, South Portland (207) 879–0028
www.bethaam.org
Etz Chaim Synagogue
267 Congress Street, Portland (207) 773–2339
info@etzchaim-portland.org
www.etzchaim-portland.org
Jewish Community Alliance of Southern Maine
1342 Congress Street, Portland (207) 772–1959
jca@mainejewish.org
A support organization for Jewish life and continuity locally, inIsrael, and throughout the world. Run a daycare and provide family
services, cultural events, clubs and classes, and adult Jewish learning
opportunities.
https://www.mainejewish.org/
Shaarey Tphiloh Synagogue
400 Deering Avenue, Portland (207)773–0693 maineshul@gmail.com
http://www.mainesynagogue.org/wp/
ChristianBethel Christian Center
36 Patrick Drive, Westbrook (207) 854–9700 info@bccmaine.org
Brings together refugees, immigrants, and Americans to worship together
without cultural barriers. Hold services in English and African languages.
http://bccmaine.org/

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El Ministerio Hispano
Sacred Heart/Saint Dominic Parish, 65 Mellon Street, Portland(207) 773–7746
Offers services for members of the Hispanic Community of Maine
including pastoral attention, referrals to services, support for detainees’
families, connection to families in home countries in cases of emergency(when possible), visitation of detainees, and advocacy and crisis
intervention. Contact Sr. Patricia at (207) 615–2522 or pporarsm@
yahoo.com, Rosario Starratt at (207) 312– 4716, or Juse O. Perez atjosseperez@yahoo.com.
https://portlanddiocese.org/ministries/hispanic-ministry
FBC Westbrook
733 Main Street, Westbrook (207) 854–8394 info@fbcwestbrook.com
Christian ministry that offers services in French, Lingala, Portuguese.
http://fbcwestbrook.com/
First Parish in Portland; Unitarian Universalist
425 Congress Street, Portland (207)773–5747
office@firstparishportland.org
Hold monthly community dinners and a variety of classes andcommittees to help the congregation put their faith into action in thecommunity.
http://firstparishportland.org/
First Russian Baptist Church
211 Mosher Road, Gorham (207) 892–8324 frbcgorhamme@gmail.com
Holds services in Russian for the large community of Russian immigrants
in the suburbs of Portland.
http://frbcme.org/language/en/
HopeGateWay
509 Forest Avenue, Portland (207) 899–2435 hello@hopegateway.com
HopeGateWay is a United Methodist community of people of all ages
and backgrounds. They have a sizable immigrant population within
their congregation. They also have an active youth group and children’s
ministry that is welcoming to all.
http://hopegateway.com/home
Kingdom Hall of Jehovah’s Witnesses
355 Canco Road, Portland (207) 773–6171
100 Strout Street, South Portland (207) 799–2521
Has a very active community and welcomes New Mainers.
www.jw.org
Portland Peninsula and Island Parishes
307 Congress Street, Portland (207) 773–7746
portlandpeninsula@portlanddiocese.org
Five parishes each with a unique mission and a proud tradition. The
Cathedral and Sacred Heart parishes have become home to large
numbers of African New Mainers. Saint Louis Parish is home to many100

Eastern Europeans.
The Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception
307 Congress Street, Portland (207) 773–7746
Saint Louis Parish
279 Danforth Street, Portland (207) 773–7746
Saint Peter Parish
72 Federal Street, Portland (207) 773–7746
Sacred Heart/Saint Dominic Parish
65 Mellen Street, Portland (207) 773–7746
Note: Offers weekly masses in Spanish
https://portlandcatholic.org/ 					White Memorial Seventh-Day Adventist Church
97 Allen Ave, Portland (207) 797–4414
Have a food pantry and clothing donation.
https://www.portlandsda.org/
Williston-Immanuel United Church
156 High Street, Portland (207) 775–2301 office@williston-immanuel.org
Williston-Immanuel United Church is affiliated with both the United
Church of Christ and the American Baptist Churches USA. They have along history of supporting neighbors in need, many times New Mainers.
Community Assistance Program: Assist people with food staples,
diapers, cleaning supplies and financial assistance. See Basic Needs
section for details.
http://williston-immanuel-united.org/
Other Faiths
Baha’ai
550 Auburn Street, Portland (207) 317–5927
Maine Hindu Temple
719 Main Street, Westbrook (207) 370–0475
info@mainehindutemple.
www.mainehindutemple.org

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NOTES:NOTES:NOTES: