On November 15, an Open House was held at the Family Harbor House, a transitional housing program being developed by the Midcoast Maine Homeless Coalition (MMHC).  It was enthusiastically received.  It is the result of over three years of planning to assist local families experiencing homelessness.Its purpose is to provide lodging, food, connections to supportive services and a welcoming place to stay until they are able to obtain permanent housing. 

The MMHC was established over three years ago, thanks to Rev. Bob Johansen and Rev. Amy McCormick, who were part of the founding board.  Now a non-profit 501(c)3 organization, space was found at Belfast United Methodist Church (BUMC).  But there was much that needed to be done.  Showers and walls needed to be added, the kitchen remodeled and painting.  So, we want to say thank you to those who have helped us achieve what we have today.

First, we thank the Belfast City Council and Planning Board for all they did in assisting us in the process of re-zoning and requirements. 

We especially want to thank Mary Mortier for all her guidance and direction. 

We thank Dann Waldron and Whitecap Builders for assisting with the design and donation of labor in remodeling.  We thank Viking Lumber for their donations of materials.  The electricians and plumbers and all the volunteers who came and helped clean and paint.  All who have donated beds and furniture. 

To Rev. Seongmoon Ahn and the members of BUMC who offered this space and to the Greater Bay Area Ministerium and the many faith and civic organizations who are organizing and planning to volunteer time and energy to provide food and coverage for our neighbors who find themselves in challenging times.

On Tuesday, December 9, at 4 p.m., we plan to hold a ribbon-cutting ceremony.  Please join us in celebrating this important work addressing homelessness in our community.

The MMHC Board includes:  Kathy Muzzy (Chair), Cathy Moreton Gray (Co-Vice Chair), Joel Krueger (Co-Vice Chair), Suetta Tenney (Treasurer), Julie Daley (Secretary), Steven Alspach, Mary Sullivan, Joe Calista, and David Beseda (Family Harbor House Director).  

Rev. Joel Krueger is co-vice chair of the Midcoast Maine Homeless Coalition