The proposed freeze on funding for over 2,600 federal grant programs has created a reality of uncertainty and turmoil for many nonprofits. This freeze has the potential to greatly disrupt the critical work of many charity organizations resulting in a loss of benefits for many individuals and families in our communities. Some nonprofits are locked out of websites used for filing claims. Others that work on a reimbursement model are working to access funds to cover monies already spent. Most are scrambling to understand the full impact of the freeze and are looking for ways to continue offering services critical to healthy and thriving communities. 

Here at New Hope Midcoast, we receive federal funds directly from federal agencies as well as through agencies like the Maine Coalition to End Domestic Violence (MCEDV) and others. This freeze has the potential to impact nearly half of our budget. 

While the fate of federal funding is uncertain, we want communities we serve in Sagadahoc, Lincoln, Knox, and Waldo Counties to know that our doors are still open. We are operating 24 hours a day, seven days a week, just as we have for more than four decades. Individuals and families suffering from domestic abuse will continue to be supported. Continued essential services include: 

• Our confidential 24/7 helpline staffed by highly trained advocates 

• Emergency hotel placements for individuals and families fleeing abuse 

• Residential services that help individuals and families find and maintain a safe place to live 

• Legal advocacy including assistance with Protection from Abuse Orders and court accompaniment 

• Community and youth education that builds bonds with schools, law enforcement, partner social service agencies, and healthcare providers 

Here at New Hope Midcoast, we are currently assessing our financial outlook to determine the best approach to further supplement and diversify our funding. We will be reaching out to friends, partners, and supporters over the next few months to ask for financial assistance so that survivors of domestic abuse receive the help they need and are not alone. 

We know that some of you, like many of us, are looking for ways to make an impact in your communities during this time of uncertainty. Supporting your local nonprofits is one way to take action and make a difference. If you’d like to join our mailing list to stay informed of new developments and funding needs, click here or call Joan at (207) 691-5969. 

We are grateful to live in this place where Mainers help Mainers. The need to support survivors of domestic abuse and provide them with a sense of belonging and community has not changed. We deeply appreciate the generosity shown by the people, businesses, civic organizations, and towns of midcoast Maine in the past. We will need your continued support as we navigate this challenging time. 

New Hope Midcoast is one of Maine’s Regional Domestic Violence Resource Centers and a member of the Maine Coalition to End Domestic Violence. The nonprofit organization supports people impacted by domestic abuse, dating violence, and stalking through housing and legal advocacy, education and prevention programs, and a 24/7 helpline. The organization serves Sagadahoc, Lincoln, Knox, and Waldo Counties. New Hope continues to meet clients where they are and recognizes that the impact of domestic abuse is widespread. We are survivor-led here for anyone in need.