Frequently Asked Questions
(Answers provided by Karen MacDonald, executive director.)

I have never heard of Port Resources. What should know about your organization?
Port Resources provides residential programs for adults, adolescents and children. We operate a six-bed crisis-respite home for adults. The organization supports the rights of consumers to make their own decisions, with the help of their guardians. We provide innovative services, develop program for a wide array of needs and strives to provide the highest quality of services for those it supports. Port Resources is consumer centered and driven. We value our staff and acknowledge their contributions to the organization’s success. Port Resources is willing to take chances to empower our consumers to have unique and life-changing experiences.

When was Port Resources founded and why?
Port Resources was incorporated in December 1979 and opened its first group home in July 1980 (a six-bed group home on Emery Street in Portland—now two, four-person apartments referred to as the "Munroe House," in honor of Elmer Munroe. Port Resources was established as part of the movement to de-institutionalize individuals with development disabilities from Pineland.

What are the biggest challenges facing those you serve?
There are many, including: social opportunities outside those provided by Port Resources; finding suitable employment opportunities; finding suitable, adequate and quality clinical and medical services; community acceptance; funding; lack of natural supports; rightful education supports; ongoing transition of staff; and changing living environments.

What is the biggest challenge your agency faces in the immediate future?
Port Resources is alarmed by the proposed budget cuts to agencies such as ours. The Department of Behavioral and Developmental Services had proposed a two-percent cut across all agencies to compensate for revenue shortfalls. Any cuts would have resulted in a reduction of services to the consumers we support. We are proud that we run efficient programs, but we continue to face increased business costs in all areas—most significantly in rising insurance costs. We cannot absorb such cuts without consumers experiencing meaningful losses in services.

In what communities do you offer In-Home Support services?
Port Resources provides In-Home Support services to many communities in York and Region 1. We are currently serving children as far north as Cumberland, as far west as Parsonsfield, and as far south as South Berwick. We can serve children throughout York and Cumberland Counties.

Have a question about Port Resources? We would love to answer it. Please contact us!