PORTLAND, Maine — After years of relocating, Portland Gear Hub, a nonprofit providing free transportation to those in need, has finally secured a permanent home on Washington Avenue.
The organization raised over $1.5 million to purchase the building it has been renting since 2017, marking a major milestone in its 10-year history.
"It’s taken a bit of two years to raise that, and so this is the culmination of a long journey," James O’Donnell, director of the Portland Gear Hub said.
A perfect fit
This marks the nonprofit's fourth move. It focuses on selling bikes and outdoor gear while giving back to the community through educational programs and bike donations.
"This location is absolutely perfect for us because we’re in the prime location for people to access our services," Executive Director Laragh Kavanaugh said.
Portland Gear Hub offers free bicycles to kids and immigrants who may not have access to reliable transportation, ensuring that their mission goes beyond business.
"We really feel that this is special, but also the perfect place for us to continue to carry out our mission," Kavanaugh added.
Expanding their mission
With a permanent home secured, the Portland Gear Hub is setting its sights on the future. The organization hopes to expand its offerings.
"Donate more bikes, offer more educational opportunities, more opportunities for folks to engage in low-cost bike repair,” O’Donnell said, outlining their goals.
Community support
Throughout this journey, Portland Gear Hub leadership said it felt the unwavering support of the local community.
"The community coming behind us to support us has made us feel really special," O’Donnell shared.