PORTLAND, Maine — Avesta Housing, the largest nonprofit affordable housing provider in northern New England, has presented its Mission Champion Award to the Southern Maine Agency on Aging (SMAA) for its longtime commitment to provide support and services to older adults living in affordable homes in Maine.
Avesta’s Mission Champion Award is presented annually to an individual or organization who has made significant contributions to the promotion and provision of affordable housing. A nonprofit organization, SMAA has been the leading resource for services and information empowering older adults, adults with disabilities, and their caregivers in Cumberland and York counties for more than 50 years. Its impact can be felt across the Avesta Housing property portfolio in Maine.
“Avesta Housing was founded in 1972 and Southern Maine Agency on Aging was founded the following year, so we have been kindred spirits with shared values and goals almost from the beginning,” said Avesta Housing President & CEO Jennifer Hawkins. “SMAA’s impactful collaboration with Avesta – notably in providing wellness and nutrition programs, caregiver support, and housing stability services tailored to older Mainers – reflects Avesta’s core belief that everyone deserves a safe, affordable place to call home.”
PHOTO: Avesta Housing presents its Mission Champion Award to the Southern Maine Agency on Aging on Sept. 16 at Allagash Brewing Company in Portland, Maine. L-R: Avesta Housing President & CEO Jennifer Hawkins, Southern Maine Agency on Aging CEO Megan Walton, and Avesta Housing Board of Directors Chair Dr. Renee Fay-LeBlanc