THOMASTON — The Penobscot Bay YMCA, in partnership with the Town of Thomaston, has launched a new Community Navigation pilot program designed to help residents access local and state resources, benefits, and support services. The grant-funded pilot program will serve Thomaston residents, providing free, confidential assistance to help navigate programs related to housing, food, utilities, transportation, recovery support, employment, and more.

Heather Devita, Penobscot Bay YMCA’s new Community Navigator, will be available at two convenient locations, according to a news release:

● Thomaston Public Library (60 Main St.) — Mondays, 4–7 PM

● Thomaston Municipal Building (13 Valley St.) — Tuesdays & Thursdays, 9–11 AM

Appointments are encouraged. Residents can schedule by calling 207‐886‐4340 or emailing hdevita@penbayymca.org.

“This Community Navigation pilot will have a tremendously positive impact on the Thomaston community by helping residents more easily access the supports and services they need,” said Kara George, Thomaston Town Manager. “We are proud to be the town piloting this program in Knox County and grateful for our partnership with the Penobscot Bay YMCA. We hope this initiative will grow and continue to serve those in need for many years to come.”

The Community Navigator program is not a crisis line, but provides important support connecting residents to appropriate services. Assistance can include help with completing paperwork, determining eligibility for benefits, accessing food, clothing, and housing, applying for financial support, and more. Participation is confidential and compassionate.

This pilot is modeled after similar successful programs in other Maine counties, including the Central Lincoln County YMCA’s Community Navigator program, where residents and communities have benefited from additional support in connecting with local resources. While this pilot currently serves Thomaston, the YMCA hopes to evaluate impact and expand the program to additional communities in the future.

This pilot was made possible through a Maine State Community Development Block Grant in partnership with the Town of Thomason. Residents and community members who wish to support the program can do so by donating to the Penobscot Bay YMCA, directly impacting neighbors who need assistance.

For more information, visit the Penobscot Bay YMCA website (www.penbayymca.org/programs/community-navigation) or schedule an appointment 207‐886‐4340 or hdevita@penbayymca.org.