Moment of Gratitude: Biddeford in 2024

As the year draws to a close, it offers a natural moment to pause, reflect, and express gratitude. This year has not been without its challenges. Global uncertainties and local struggles have profoundly tested the fabric of our daily lives. Yet, it is often within these challenges that we see the strength of individuals and groups who make those difficulties a little easier to overcome.

Amid the trials of 2024, remarkable acts of resilience, generosity, and community spirit have shone brightly. Biddeford has witnessed incredible efforts from numerous individuals, groups, and city departments, each contributing to the strength and character of our city. As we prepare to welcome 2025, let us take a moment to recognize the individuals and groups who have faced challenges head-on, transforming adversity into meaningful progress and leaving a lasting impact on Biddeford.

City Department - Engineering Department

Often working behind the scenes, the Engineering Department, a division of Public Works, has played a pivotal role in managing and advancing key infrastructure projects in Biddeford. Under the leadership of Craig Chekan, Director of City Engineering, and Tom Milligan, City Engineer Emeritus, the department’s expertise has delivered significant cost savings and efficiency. This year, they oversaw critical projects such as the city's Riverwalk improvements, street repairs, and sewer infrastructure upgrades. Their efforts ensure that the foundational elements of our city remain strong and resilient.

The department has also been instrumental in updating Biddeford’s sewer impact fees, which developers who build in the city are charged. This updated policy ensures that developers bear a greater share of sewer infrastructure upgrades than taxpayers, reflecting a thoughtful approach to sustainable growth.

Beyond major projects, the Engineering Department handles vital tasks such as sewer and storm drain permitting and DEP compliance. Their contributions, while often unnoticed, are indispensable to the daily functioning and future prosperity of Biddeford.

Quasi-Municipal Organization - Biddeford Housing Authority

The Biddeford Housing Authority, led by Executive Director Guy Gagnon and a dedicated Board of Directors, is steadfast in its mission to provide safe and affordable housing for lower-income families, older adults, people with disabilities, and the unhoused. The Authority proudly owns the St. Andre’s complex on Bacon Street, an iconic symbol of its commitment and impact.

At the heart of this complex is the remodeled St. Andre’s Church, completed this year and now home to the My Place Teen Center. Under the leadership of Executive Director Donna Dwyer, this essential resource offers mentoring, life skills programs, and daily meals that serve up to 100 local youth each day. Surrounding the center, the complex also features affordable apartments for seniors, a community hub, vegetable gardens, and Biddeford High School's Alternative Pathways Center, which provides innovative support for students.

This year, the Authority also partnered with Preble Street to launch a Transitional Living Program for at-risk and homeless youth aged 16-24. This low-barrier, site-based program delivers case management and life skills training, helping participants stabilize their lives and build independence.

Through its life-changing work, the Biddeford Housing Authority is creating stability, fostering opportunity, and shaping a stronger future for Biddeford.

Nonprofit Organization - Seeds of Hope

The Seeds of Hope Neighborhood Center partners with local organizations and neighbors to find solutions to poverty and promote personal growth. Guided by compassion, inclusion, and collaboration, the center provides our neighbors care, support, and hope.

Under Executive Director Vassie Fowler's leadership, Seeds of Hope has been a steadfast source of support for Biddeford’s most vulnerable residents.

This year, the center served warm meals to an average of 100 people daily and provided a safe place for individuals who might otherwise be sleeping in tents or on the street. By fostering stability and dignity, the neighborhood center has helped many take the next step toward housing and greater independence. Seeds of Hope exemplifies the profound impact of compassion and unwavering commitment, offering essential support and uplifting our most vulnerable neighbors with dignity and care.

Community Group - Better Biddeford

Better Biddeford is an initiative to foster more equitable, healthy communities for all. Under Carolyn Schmidke's leadership, this group has organized respectful and constructive community conversations and advocacy efforts on a wide range of topics, including homelessness, aging in place, childcare, tenants' rights, playgrounds, skate parks, youth empowerment, and the arts. By creating a platform for dialogue and collaboration, Better Biddeford is building connections that empower residents and address pressing local priorities.