PORTLAND – Hope Acts, a Portland nonprofit serving asylum seekers, has begun a $2.6 million renovation of its historic Hope House at 14 Sherman St. The 120-year-old building, home to both housing and critical immigrant services, will undergo major upgrades including new kitchens and bathrooms, updated HVAC, a modern fire suppression system and improved security and outdoor space.
Construction renovations are underway to modernize Hope House with energy-efficient systems, a new fire alarm and suppression system, upgraded HVAC, enhanced exterior lighting and security and full health and safety compliance. The redesigned ground floor will provide flexible, welcoming space that better accommodates classes, essential services and client meetings.
The “Beacon of Hope” Capital Campaign has already raised 90% of its goal through gifts from individuals, businesses, and other funders.
“This strong show of support comes at a very difficult and frightening time for immigrants,” said Martha Stein, executive director of Hope Acts. “Donors are standing up for the values of welcome and belonging, often honoring their own family’s immigrant history with a gift.”
Hope Acts now invites the broader community to bring the campaign to the finish line by contributing towards the remaining $250,000 needed to achieve the campaign goal. Community member participation will help Hope Acts quickly reach the finish line.
The Beacon of Hope team includes LB Development Partners, Dexterous Creative Architects, Hardypond Construction and Bull Moose Group. The construction is expected to be completed by spring 2026.
Major funders are the Federal Home Loan Bank of Boston sponsored by Bangor Savings Bank and the Federal Home Loan Bank of New York, sponsored by M&T Bank. Financing is provided by the Elmina B. Sewall Foundation and the Genesis Loan Fund. Over 100 individual donors, businesses and foundations have also contributed to the campaign.
Three ways to give to the Beacon of Hope Campaign
1. Buy a Brick – “Pave the Way”
Leave a lasting mark on Hope House by purchasing an engraved brick in the that will be part of our exterior walkway. Bricks can honor a loved one, celebrate ancestors, or recognize a country of origin. (Gifts of $250+ qualify for this opportunity.)
2. Make a General Donation
Every contribution helps complete the $2.6M renovation of Hope House, ensuring safe housing and vital services for asylum seekers in Portland. Your gift—of any amount—directly supports the project.
3. Designate Your Gift
Would you like your gift to furnish appliances for our apartments? Install our new security system or purchase new furniture? We are happy to explore ideas with you to designate your gift towards a specific purchase.
For more information about Hope Acts, its services, and how to help us reach the campaign goal, please visit https://beacon.hopeacts.org/ or contact Martha Stein at [email protected].
Founded in 2013, Hope Acts is a 501 (c) (3) nonprofit organization that offers asylum seekers access to housing and basic needs, assistance in navigating complex immigration processes, and resources for learning English to help them successfully transition to a new life in Maine.
