Mission
Hope Acts 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.
Vision
We envision a community where immigrants are welcomed and empowered socially, emotionally, physically, economically, and spiritually.
Our History
Hope Acts was founded in 2012 by the HopeGateWay Faith Community as a separate 501(c)3 nonprofit organization.
2013
Hope House opens and welcomes our first 13 asylum seeker residents thanks to the generosity of Richard and Theresa Berman.
2016
Hope House English Language Program (HHELP), a volunteer-led program that focuses on practical skills in small, student-centered classes, launches at Hope House.
2018
The Asylum Seeker Assistance Program (ASAP) launches as a drop-in program for asylum seekers navigating basic needs.
2019
Work Permit Clinic launches to assist asylum seekers in completing their work permit applications. Hope Acts joins the Project HOME partnership with Quality Housing Coalition.
2020
To continue services during the pandemic, programs move to the backyard of Hope House, while English classes move from in-person to online.
2021
Hope Acts hires it first dedicated housing manager for Project HOME partnership.
2022
Hope House is gifted to Hope Acts by Richard and Theresa Berman. The Asylum Application Resource Center (AARC) begins as a pilot project at the Portland Public Library.
2023
Hope Acts celebrates its 10th anniversary! Partnering with Maine Department of Labor, the Work Permit Clinic co-locates to Portland Public Library.
2024
Hope Acts launches a Capital Campaign to raise $2.6 million for a full renovation of the 120-year old Hope House.
2025
Construction of Hope House begins. Staff move to the YMCA during construction.