Ribbon Cutting for Raise-Op Housing Cooperative

Join us in celebrating the Ribbon Cutting for Raise-Op Housing Cooperative in Lewiston at 4:30 PM on Tuesday, May 9th, 2023.

The Raise-Op Housing Cooperative develops and operates affordable homes that are inclusive and empowering for its residents.  The Raise-Op has been operating in the Tree Street Neighborhood since its founding in 2008
 

"This is going to help address housing issues for tenants who are struggling to get an apartment.  It will help to unite neighbors and help people to afford their homes.  These buildings will offer 4 bedroom apartments, each with 2 bathrooms, which is very important to help large families have some privacy.  I've never seen an apartment like that before in my life. It will be very helpful.  It will make a huge difference in the life of these families.  In other rental buildings, tenants who live next to each other, they never talk, they never know each other.  In Raise-Op, tenants get to know each other. They meet regularly and plan things together.  They learn from each other.  This is also a good example for younger generations, to learn how they can communicate, participate in meetings, and address concerns together."  

- Hilowle Aden, Resident and Board Director of the Raise-Op

"I am thrilled to see the Blake and Walnut buildings start to rise in this neighborhood, which is rich in history and tradition. The buildings carry the grit and cooperative spirit that is Lewiston. 

The start of construction is a validating and inspiring moment for all of the residents of Raise-Op who took part in our planning and design process so that their neighbors could have new affordable and healthy homes.  The inclusion of people most impacted by the housing crisis in the development of these and future projects - we believe is crucial to making homes that are truly responsive to people's needs and desires, and will make for more meaningful social change in our community.

These buildings are not just units of housing, they are homes, and they represent a resolve to end housing instability in Lewiston, and promote community building.  We are grateful for the relationships we have developed through this process, beginning with our residents, and including the designers, engineers, builders, lenders, investors, consultants, housing authorities, and public sector workers who all helped to make this possible."

-Shaad Masood, President of Raise-Op

What: Raise-Op Housing Cooperative Ribbon Cutting

When: Tuesday, May 9th 2022, at 4:30 PM

Were: 198 Blake Street, Lewiston, ME 04240