Sweetser opens new program to give young Mainers a fresh start

Sweetser has opened a new program on their Saco campus aimed at supporting young adults called Fresh Start.

This transitional residential program provides a physical, therapeutic place for young adults to treat their mental health challenges and get the necessary support they need to become successfully independent.

Young Mainers aged 18-24 who have experienced childhood trauma or system involvement, such as foster care or in the criminal justice system, or have had a psychiatric hospital stay, will benefit from such a program. Transitional units like this aim to prevent homelessness and reduce incarceration through structured programming and evidence-based treatment on the path to independence.

“Emerging adulthood is a pivotal transition period that could make or break those with mental health challenges, let alone those coming from the foster care or criminal justice system,” said Sweetser’s Senior Director of Public Relations and Advancement Justin Chenette. “These young adults need support, treatment, and tools to successfully live on their own. We are giving them a fresh start in life.”

Sweetser converted one of their crisis units after the state asked them to consider starting the program, which is one of only a handful in Maine.

Young adults enrolled in Sweetser’s Fresh Start will receive individual and group treatment, enrichment activities, social interactions within a group setting, and support and skill development to join the workforce, go to school, or volunteer.

This past week the City of Saco held a ribbon-cutting ceremony. Mayor Jodi MacPhail, the Biddeford Saco Chamber of Commerce + Industry, and city economic development officials joined Sweetser staff in opening the young adult residential unit.

Referrals will typically come from hospitals, the state of Maine, Long Creek, and law enforcement and the program can serve 8-10 young adults at a time.

Learn more at www.Sweetser.org/FreshStart.