The Maine Multicultural Center promotes community enrichment and economic growth by attracting, retaining, supporting, and integrating people of diverse cultures and backgrounds into greater Bangor.

Creating safe space and boosting our local economy

Dear Friends,

At the Maine Multicultural Center, we stand at a crossroads between hope and fear. The world is changing, and many of those we serve — immigrants and refugees from all walks of life — face an uncertain future. As Mainers, we have always understood that welcoming the stranger is more than just a moral imperative but is a true economic driver for the state. And now, more than ever, we need your support to continue this vital work.

Maine has long been a place where immigrants and refugees build new lives and contribute to the vibrancy of our communities. Maine has a long-standing tradition of welcoming those who are willing to work hard and contribute. Today, immigrants represent 4.1% of Maine’s population. With a spending power of $1.7 Billion and as taxpayers, they are a vital part of our economy and cultural fabric. From healthcare providers to entrepreneurs, dish washers to construction workers, farmers to teachers, they enrich our state and our communities in countless ways. But in this time of increasing political uncertainty, many of our neighbors — who have come here (often fleeing from violence and repressive governments) seeking safety, opportunity, and a better future — now find themselves at risk of losing the very peace and freedom they have been offered.

Here at the Maine Multicultural Center, we remain steadfast in our commitment to protect and support our new neighbors. As a community-based organization, we are deeply committed to creating a safe and welcoming space where newcomers can thrive as they help our state to meet its workforce challenges. New Mainers play a critical role in building a successful future for Maine.

Because of the generous support of people like you, MMCC has in the past year been able to expand its staff to 4 and significantly increase the number of immigrants we’ve been able to serve. Since October 2023 we have been able to engage over 60 volunteers who have assisted in the resettlement of 127 individuals who comprised 37 households. All are living in safe and permanent housing and 53 of the 63 working age adults are employed.

But we need your help. In the coming year, we will face even greater challenges. With your support we can ensure that the Maine Multicultural Center is able to continue to be a place where all immigrants and refugees are welcomed with open arms, treated with dignity, and empowered to build the future they deserve.

With your support, we will continue to:

● Equip immigrant families to navigate the complexities of the U.S. immigration system, train to meet the workforce needs of local businesses, and integrate into a new culture.

● Support resettlement efforts for new families that are set to arrive in the coming year, including initial set up of their accommodations, and making that house feel like home.

● Create safe spaces for individuals and families to gather, connect, and share their experiences — places where fear and isolation can be transformed into strength and solidarity.

● Educate our community about the benefits of New Mainers to our community and our economy, and how to create welcoming environments where newcomers thrive.

● Advocate for policies that protect immigrants and promote inclusivity, ensuring that our state remains a place of opportunity for all.

We believe that sanctuary is not just a place but a commitment to love, support, and uplift those who need it most. In a time of rising fear and division, we can be the community that offers a different story — one where hope and compassion prevail. But we cannot do this important work
without you.

Please join us in continuing this vital work by making a donation today. Your gift — no matter the size — will make a difference in the lives of those who depend on us. Together, we can create a future where everyone, regardless of their background, can thrive.

“Every aspect of the American economy has profited from the contributions of immigrants.” –
President John F. Kennedy

“If we ever closed the door to new Americans, our leadership in the world would soon be lost.” –
President Ronald Reagan

Thank you for being a part of our community and for standing with immigrants and refugees in Maine. Your kindness and support are the foundation of everything we do. We are deeply grateful for you.

Warmly,

Pamela Proulx-Curry,
Executive Director

Ways To Give
● Visit our website at https://mainemulticulturalcenter.org/ to donate online.
● Send a check to: Maine Multicultural Center, 40 Harlow St., Bangor, ME 04401
● Set up a recurring monthly donation for ongoing support.