Esther Residence in Saco Receives “Better Neighbor Fund” $5,000 Grant

SACO---The Esther Residence in Saco has been named a recipient of a “Better Neighbor Fund” $5,000 grant from Town & Country Federal Credit Union. The grants are awarded annually to local charitable organizations working to improve the community.

Now in its 16th year, the Esther Residence is a transitional program for women who are leaving incarceration and/or treatment programs. It provides a safe, nurturing community based on safety, respect, and dignity. The home is a bridge that promotes healthy connections to family and the larger community.

“We are so grateful. This grant will help fund parent coaching for residents while they are here and, if possible, after they leave to help them continue their relationship with their children and have some activities that help mother and child bond together in new and enjoyable settings,” said Sister Joanne Roy, SCIM, director of Esther Residence.

Earlier this year, the residence was the recipient of the Matthew 25 Award, given annually by Catholic Charities Maine’s Parish Social Ministry program to ministries directly serving vulnerable people in need.

 “The Esther Residence is a special project with a wonderful mission,” said Bishop Robert Deeley. “It provides a safe community for women who are recovering from adverse circumstances. Some are coming out of prison, some from treatment centers. At Esther Residence, they find care grounded in the respect and dignity every person possesses. The residents of this mission are supported in working towards staying sober, finding full-time employment, attending counseling, and receiving adult education to enable them to transition to living independently so that they can have a more satisfying life.”

“Women at the residence are homeless, often having been separated from their children,” said Sister Joanne. “The residents are supported in working towards staying sober, finding full-time employment, attending counseling, and receiving adult education to enable them to transition to independence living so that they can reunite with their children.”

Founded in 2006, the residence has been operated and guided by the Good Shepherd Sisters with invaluable help from its dedicated volunteers, all willing to trade their time and talent for providing a path forward for women in need.

For more information about the Esther Residence or to offer support, visit www.estherresidence.org.