PORTLAND — From its beginnings in 1972, Shalom House has offered hope for adults living with severe mental illness.
Through the years, the Portland-based organization has grown into a crucial resource that provides an array of services, housing assistance, and guidance towards stability.
In the process, Shalom House is breaking through barriers that hundreds of people with serious mental illness would otherwise face, including not being able to afford a safe and clean place to live, not knowing how to navigate the complexities of the mental health care system, and, sometimes, getting lost and discouraged.
“Every day, we are dedicated to helping adults living with severe mental illness find their place in our community,” said Mary Haynes-Rodgers, LCSW, executive director of Shalom House. “We help people escape the stress of homelessness, hunger, and isolation. Our goal is to help people address personal goals, receive services, and lead fulfilling lives.”
Shalom House provides access to safe and affordable housing, healthy food, healthcare services, and other basic needs, delivering care with compassion and respect. Clients are assisted in making housing choices and navigating individualized planning for care and recovery. The organization also offers a broad spectrum of services built upon a foundation of mental health care.
“The goal is to help clients progress towards independence and continued stability as well as achieve integration with friends, family, and neighbors within the community,” said Haynes-Rodgers.
Shalom House also advocates for those with mental illness and housing challenges at the local, state, and federal level, partnering with many organizations and benevolent individuals along the way.
The organization and its mission of serving the most vulnerable members of the community with dignity has inspired consistent contributions from Norway Savings Bank, including a $1,000 donation this month.
“The way in which Shalom House focuses on meeting the basic needs of these individuals helps them become more stable, but the organization doesn’t stop there. They help clients regain independence and health and discover strengths and abilities,” said Dan Walsh, president and CEO of Norway Savings. “We’re so glad to support Shalom House as they offer a path forward towards appropriate treatment for clients and help them become vital parts of the community.”
Shalom House is able to provide care and serve hundreds in need in large part due to the time, support, and contributions of generous individuals and businesses. To explore a variety of ways in which you can offer support, visit www.shalomhouseinc.org or call 207-874-1080.
Founded in 1866, Norway Savings Bank is a leading mutual banking and financial services company headquartered in Norway, Maine. As of September 30, 2024, Norway Savings Bank had $1.981 billion in total assets; 24 branch locations; and divisions in trust and investment services, personal banking, and business banking. It has received an “Outstanding” rating for three consecutive Community Reinvestment Act Exams from the FDIC. Norway Savings has also received the Best Place for Working Parents designation in 2022, 2023, and 2024, and was recognized with the “Best Wellness Employer – Gold Certification” for the sixth year in a row by Wellness Workdays. BauerFinancial has designated the Bank the “Best of Bauer” for earning and maintaining its highest 5-star rating for 34 continuous years. For more information, visit www.norwaysavings.bank.
