Giving Back Across Maine + New Hampshire: 1% Back Grant Highlights
Portside’s 1% Back initiative is delighted to highlight the incredible organizations receiving funding this year. These grants support projects that fight food insecurity, create safe spaces for youth, and build stronger communities across Maine and New Hampshire.
Within Greater Portland, Portside was able to support multiple non-profit organizations that are impacting our communities for the better! Take a look at what these amazing organizations are supporting throughout our communities.
LearningWorks provides free community-based education programs that help children, youth, and families across Southern Maine build the skills and confidence needed to succeed. With funding, LearningWorks will expand access to no-cost educational programming, vocational training, and restorative justice services that support young people both academically and personally. Through academics, youth development, and social-emotional support, the organization helps learners move to a place of possibility and opportunity. Learn more about their work at https://www.learningworks.me/
Greater Portland Health provides high-quality, patient-centered healthcare that is accessible and affordable for the communities it serves. With funding, Greater Portland Health will provide convenient dental screenings, cleanings, and fluoride treatments to children directly in their public schools, helping reduce oral health disparities and improve access to preventative care. By bringing essential services directly to students, the program helps ensure more children receive the care they need to stay healthy and thrive. Learn more about their work at https://www.greaterportlandhealth.org/
Side x Side empowers youth through the arts by partnering with teachers, artists, and students to strengthen academic achievement, cultivate creativity, and build community. With funding, Side x Side will pair teaching artists with classroom teachers to co-create From Stream to Story, an arts-based unit designed to engage learners, build interpersonal skills, and support academic success. Through hands-on creative experiences and collaboration, students gain confidence, develop critical thinking skills, and discover new ways to connect learning with self-expression. Learn more about their work at https://sidexsideme.com/
Birth Roots Inc. provides community-based education and support for families from pregnancy through the early years of parenting, helping new parents build confidence, connection, and resilience. With funding, Birth Roots will support the health and well-being of new and expectant families in the LGBTQ+ community across Southern Maine by creating welcoming spaces for education, conversation, and support. By prioritizing community and shared experiences during the early stages of parenthood, their programs help families feel more connected and prepared for the journey ahead. Learn more about their work at https://birthroots.org/
Greater Portland Family Promise helps families experiencing homelessness and low-income families achieve sustainable independence through a compassionate, community-based approach. With funding, the organization will continue providing housing navigation, move-in support, and stabilization services that help families secure and maintain safe housing. Through case management, financial assistance, food and diaper distribution, and educational programs, Greater Portland Family Promise supports families as they build stability and work toward long-term independence. Learn more about their work at https://www.gpfamilypromise.org/
Children’s Museum & Theatre of Maine sets the stage for every child to imagine, learn, and grow through the power of play. With funding, the organization will continue creating welcoming, inclusive spaces where children and families can explore creativity, storytelling, and hands-on learning together. Through exhibits, performances, and interactive experiences, the museum fosters curiosity, belonging, and community while ensuring every child has the opportunity to play, learn, and feel celebrated. Learn more about their work at https://www.kitetails.org/
United Way’s ALICE program shines a light on the growing number of working households who earn above the Federal Poverty Level but still struggle to afford basic necessities like housing, childcare, food, and healthcare. With funding, the program will continue advancing research, awareness, and community solutions that support ALICE families across Maine. By identifying and measuring financial hardship more accurately, the initiative helps nonprofits, businesses, and policymakers better understand and address the challenges facing hardworking families. Learn more about the ALICE initiative at https://www.unitedforalice.org/
Ronald McDonald House Charities supports families with children receiving medical care by providing comfort, resources, and a place to stay close to the hospital during difficult times. With funding, the organization will continue offering lodging, meals, and supportive spaces that help ease the emotional and financial burdens families face along their child’s healthcare journey. By creating a caring community and ensuring families can remain close to their children during treatment, Ronald McDonald House helps improve outcomes and provide stability when it matters most. Learn more about their work at https://rmhc.org/
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