New Mainers moved to St. Ignatius Gym 

The former St. Ignatius Gym became a “temporary housing placement” for dozens of asylum-seeking families this past week. 

Some 28 families from Haiti, Angola and Congo DRC were forced to vacate motels where they have been living for the past month because housing vouchers expired. Calvary Baptist Church is making space available until July 2, when the families are eligible to reapply for housing vouchers through the General Assistance program.

York County Community Action Corp has taken the lead in coordinating the comprehensive community resettlement effort undertaken by multiple churches, the York County Emergency Agency, The City of Sanford, Nasson Community Center, Nasson Health Care and many volunteers. Permanent housing has been identified for 17 families, although some apartments won’t be available until mid-July, according to Meaghan Azberger, Director of Economic Opportunity for YCCAC. The agency is also coordinating transportation, health screening and vaccinations, urgent medical care and the provision of clothing and household essentials. 

Volunteers are needed to staff the gym round the clock. Four-hour shifts are being scheduled. If you are interested, YCCAC will be conducting volunteer trainings at 7:40 AM, 3:40 PM, and 11:40 PM. Email info@yccac.org to find out more.

If it is your first time, you will also be required to undergo a background check. Full name and date of birth is all you need to provide. 

YCCAC is also accepting monetary donations. Checks can be made out to YCCAC with “Asylum Seeker” in the memo.

Lastly, help is needed moving tables at the Allied Career Center. 890 Main St Ste 100.