BIDDEFORD, Maine — My Place Teen Center, a nonprofit in Westbrook, is getting federal funding to finish its $3.7 million restoration project of a second center at the former St. Andre's Church Biddeford church.
The $650,000 was secured by Maine independent Sen. Angus King in the latest congressional directed spending appropriations package, which is funding 185 projects across the country.
"It's critical, it's essential, and it means we can open our doors in just a few months," My Place Teen Center CEO Donna Dwyer said about the funding.
Among other things, the money will be used to purchase information technology, a security system, fixtures, and furnishing.
My Place Teen Center serves dozens of Maine's youth after school each day. The center offers a wide range of services for high-risk youth from peer support groups, homework assistance, to hot meals, which are all free.
"It is very important to us that when a kid walks through our red doors they are greeted with a warm smile, that they are valued, and that they are respected," Dwyer said.