Question 1

What is the Maine Community Reinvestment Fund?

Accepted Answer

The Maine Community Reinvestment Fund is a dedicated initiative of the Maine Strong Memorial Foundation that supports individuals impacted by the October 25, 2023 Lewiston tragedy. The fund helps cover education, training, certification, licensing, and career advancement opportunities that create positive impact for both the recipient and Maine communities.

Question 2

Why was this fund created?

Accepted Answer

As the Foundation expanded its mission to support Maine families impacted by tragedy statewide, we wanted to ensure that the community affected by the events of October 25, 2023 continues to receive dedicated support. This fund represents our long-term commitment to those impacted while investing in opportunities that create lasting benefit throughout Maine.

Question 3

Who can apply?

Accepted Answer

Individuals who were directly impacted by the October 25, 2023, Lewiston tragedy may be eligible to apply. This may include individuals who were present at impacted locations, were injured, lost a loved one, experienced a significant personal impact, were community members or business owners affected by the lockdown, served as first responders or support professionals, or were otherwise directly affected by the events.

Question 4

What types of expenses does the fund cover?

Accepted Answer

The fund may cover expenses such as:●      Tuition and educational program costs●      Certification and licensing fees●      Required training-related travel●      Necessary materials, equipment, or supplies associated with an approved programEach application is reviewed individually.

Question 5

How is the Maine Community Reinvestment Fund funded?

Accepted Answer

The Maine Community Reinvestment Fund is supported through two sources:●      20% of net proceeds from all Maine Strong Memorial Foundation events●      Direct donations made specifically to the fund through our websiteDonors may choose to contribute directly to the fund at any time. All donations designated to the Maine Community Reinvestment Fund remain dedicated to the fund and are not used for other Foundation programs or initiatives.To ensure transparency and accountability, the fund is maintained separately from the Foundation's general funds, and all approved expenses are paid directly to educational institutions, training providers, vendors, or service providers.

Question 6

How will the Foundation ensure fairness in the selection process?

Accepted Answer

Applications are reviewed by an Advisory Committee made up of community representatives with diverse perspectives and experiences. The committee is expected to include representation from the Maine Resiliency Center, local businesses, municipal leadership, community stakeholders, and one Maine Strong Memorial Foundation Board member.The Advisory Committee evaluates applications using established criteria and makes funding recommendations based on the applicant's goals, impact, and connection to the events of October 25, 2023.Final approval is provided by the Maine Strong Memorial Foundation Board of Directors to ensure appropriate oversight and stewardship of fund resources.By incorporating community voices into the review process, the Foundation seeks to create a thoughtful, transparent, and equitable approach to funding decisions.

Question 7

Why doesn't the fund provide direct financial assistance?

Accepted Answer

The purpose of the Maine Community Reinvestment Fund is to create long-term opportunities for individuals impacted by the October 25, 2023 Lewiston tragedy. Rather than providing cash assistance, the fund invests in education, training, certifications, and career advancement opportunities that can create lasting personal and community impact.To ensure accountability and transparency, all approved expenses are paid directly to educational institutions, training providers, vendors, or service providers.

Question 8

How often can someone apply, and how are recipients selected?

Accepted Answer

Applications are accepted on a quarterly basis and reviewed through a structured selection process.The number of recipients selected each year depends on available funding. Our goal is to support as many qualified applicants as responsibly possible while ensuring meaningful assistance for each selected recipient.Because the need may exceed available funding at times, funding decisions are based on established criteria, available resources, and the potential impact of the opportunity being pursued.Applicants who are not selected may remain under consideration for future review cycles unless they choose to withdraw.

Question 9

Will recipients be featured or will the Foundation share updates about the fund’s impact?

Accepted Answer

Recipients are never required to participate in public storytelling or recognition. In some cases, individuals may choose to share their story publicly as part of a fundraising or awareness campaign, but participation is entirely voluntary and always done in partnership with the recipient.The Maine Strong Memorial Foundation is committed to sharing updates about the overall impact of the Maine Community Reinvestment Fund, including stories, outcomes, and community benefits, whenever appropriate and only with recipient consent. Our goal is to help donors understand how their support is creating meaningful opportunities and strengthening Maine communities, while fully respecting the privacy and preferences of those we serve.

Question 10

Why is this fund only available to those impacted by the Lewiston tragedy if the Foundation now serves all Maine families impacted by tragedy?

Accepted Answer

The Maine Strong Memorial Foundation was founded in response to the events of October 25, 2023. While our mission has grown to support families across Maine who are impacted by tragedy, we remain committed to ensuring the Lewiston community continues to receive dedicated, long-term support. The Maine Community Reinvestment Fund was created to honor that commitment while allowing the Foundation's broader programs to serve families statewide.

Question 11

Where does my donation go?

Accepted Answer

100% of donations made directly to the Maine Community Reinvestment Fund are invested directly into the fund and support individuals impacted by the October 25, 2023 Lewiston tragedy. In addition, 20% of net proceeds from every Maine Strong Memorial Foundation event are also contributed to the fund, helping expand its impact and provide ongoing support to those affected.Funds help cover education, training, certification, and career advancement opportunities, with all payments made directly to approved providers. The fund is maintained separately from the Foundation's general operating funds to ensure transparency and accountability.

Maine Community
Reinvestment Fund

FUND LAUNCHING JANUARY 2027

ABOUT THE MAINE COMMUNITY REINVESTMENT FUND

HOW TO APPLY

Apply Online

Download PDF Application

Frequently Asked Questions