ROCKLAND — “After nearly two years of planning board approval process and neighbor politics, much-needed affordable housing is finally underway at 165 Talbot Ave,” said Knox County Homeless Coalition, in a news release.

“Lack of affordable housing is our region’s most pressing issue. It impacts all and our community as a whole.” said Tia Anderson, Executive Director at Midcoast Habitat for Humanity.

Midcoast Habitat for Humanity, The Knox County Homeless Coalition (KCHC), and Maine State Housing Authority have teamed up to create this neighborhood community to serve as a model for other rural towns across Maine and the U.S. looking for affordable and sustainable solutions.

“Thanks to the combination of small footprint design, local business in-kind donations and discounts, the Habitat volunteer construction model, and panels built through the Construction Certification Program at the Maine State Prison, the cost of this building project is significantly less than traditional construction, making these homes truly affordable for most people working and trying to find housing in this community,” said the release.

“I wish Midcoast Habitat had greater capacity so we could ramp up production and do 10 more of these cluster neighborhoods immediately” said Steph Primm, Executive Director at KCHC

When complete, Firefly Field will provide as many as 40 people—children, families, single adults, and the elderly—with a place to call home. The neighborhood will include six cottages, two duplexes with multi-bedroom apartments, and three Habitat homes. There will be both rental and home ownership options in this diverse community, within walking distance of downtown.

About Knox County Homeless Coalition

Knox County Homeless Coalition breaks cycles of poverty and homelessness through strengths-based programs and services, helping individuals and families achieve sustainable independence and providing the next generation the foundation for a hopeful future. Through collaboration and innovation, they seek to address the root causes of homelessness such as lack of affordable housing.  

Since opening its doors, KCHC has helped more than 2500 people and found permanent housing for over 1100. Nearly half of all those served are children and youth. 

About Midcoast Habitat for Humanity

Midcoast Habitat for Humanity is part of a global, nonprofit housing organization Habitat for Humanity International, founded on the conviction that every man, woman and child should have a simple and decent place to live in dignity and safety. Midcoast Habitat brings people together to build hope, homes and community. They are dedicated to fulfilling a mission dedicated to eliminating substandard housing locally and worldwide through constructing, rehabilitating, and preserving homes; by advocating for fair and just housing policies; and by providing training, support and access to resources to help families improve their living conditions.  Midcoast Habitat builds strength, stability and self-reliance through shelter. Decent shelter in respectable communities should be a matter of conscience and action for all.