PORTLAND — Representatives from Norway Savings Bank proudly delivered a check for $40,000 to Avesta Housing in Portland on May 1, part of a multi-year commitment by the bank to an organization that continues to accelerate the creation of much-needed low and moderate-income housing across Maine.
“The greatest burden of the affordable housing crisis is frequently carried by the most vulnerable members of our communities. Avesta Housing is dedicated to providing people in need with access to safe, affordable homes,” said Dan Walsh, president and CEO of Norway Savings Bank. “Norway Savings is happy to continue supporting Avesta in its impactful effort to create housing stability in the communities in which we serve. Their staff is truly changing lives for the better by helping everyone have a place to call home.”
Founded in 1972, Avesta Housing is the largest nonprofit affordable housing provider in Maine. The organization strengthens communities by promoting and providing quality affordable homes for older adults, working families, recent immigrants, the visually impaired, and formerly unhoused individuals and families. Avesta manages more than 150 properties, serving thousands of people in Greater Portland, and has 800 new homes and units in development.
The depth of Avesta’s impact is overwhelming and continues to garner support from NSB and many others.
“Norway Savings Bank is a longtime partner and supporter of Avesta, and this generous gift is further evidence of its commitment to helping those for whom a safe, affordable place to live is becoming increasingly out of reach,” said Rebecca Hatfield, Avesta Housing president and CEO.
“We are so appreciative of all that Norway Savings Bank has done over the years to partner with and support us in our mission,” said Sara Olson, vice president of advancement for Avesta Housing. “We could not do the work we do without partners like this.”
Holly Pepin, VP and commercial loan officer at NSB, and Rick Flagg, SVP and senior commercial banking officer, delivered the check to Avesta, where they had the opportunity to learn more about the many benevolent projects completed, underway, and planned at the organization.
“One of the inspiring and driving beliefs at Avesta is that an investment in affordable housing is an investment in the future of our communities. It’s a beautiful sentiment that has never been truer or at a more crucial point than today,” said Walsh. “Avesta is providing needed housing but also preserving the dignity and livelihood of thousands. It’s an honor to help them in their mission whenever we can.”
For more information about Avesta Housing, including ways in which you can support the organization, visit www.avestahousing.org.
