Demonstrating the power of collective action, Kennebunk Savings and Partners Bank are coming together to support a critical local priority: expanded access to substance use disorder treatment in York County. The two community banks, which previously partnered to help fund the new Autism Therapy Wing at Waypoint (formerly Waban), are each committing $150,000 to help launch the new Recovery Center currently under construction in Alfred.
The project, led by York County Government and supported by the First County Foundation (FCF), will provide 24/7 care for adults facing substance use disorder with compassionate, individualized and trauma-informed care. The new center will offer a safe, supportive environment to foster holistic healing with a focus on supporting lasting wellness and ongoing aftercare support.
“This kind of collaboration is exactly what strengthens our communities,” said Lex Meagher, President & CEO of Kennebunk Savings. “When organizations, businesses, nonprofits, and leaders unite around a shared mission, we create meaningful change. We hope our partnership inspires other banks and businesses to work together to address community needs so that all of our residents can thrive.”
CEO & President of Partners Bank, Anthony Cataldi commented, “Partners Bank investment represents a meaningful step toward strengthening our community’s safety net and ensuring that individuals and families across the region have access to the care they need. We’re proud to stand together with those who are helping our neighbors rebuild their lives and move forward with hope.”
Founded in 2024, First County Foundation’s mission is “to support and strengthen safe and healthy communities by resourcing transformational solutions to the emergent needs of York County.” Construction costs for the 52,000-square-foot recovery facility are covered by federal ARPA funds, opioid settlements, and county reserves. The donations from Kennebunk Savings and Partners Bank will provide support for essential equipment, furnishings, and general operations.
“The York County Substance Use Treatment Center will be a game-changer for individuals struggling with SUD in York County, and their families,” said Gordon Smith, Director of Opioid Response for the State of Maine. “With 58 beds available, at appropriate levels of care, for the first time ever care will be available locally. Our second most populous county has previously not had nearly enough care for behavioral health available. I am so proud of the county commissioners for making this type of commitment.”
The planned completion date is Fall 2026. To learn more about the project and more work underway by First County Foundation, visit their website at http://yorkcountyfcf.org.
Photo Caption — From left: Billy Shore, FCF Board Chair, Greg Zinser, York County Manager, Rachel Stansfield, Chief Advancement Officer, First County Foundation, Anthony Cataldi, CEO & President of Partners Bank, Lex Meagher, CEO & President Kennebunk Savings, Candice Simeoni, FCF Board Member, Chris Burbank, FCF Board member, and Kathy Dumont, FCF Board member.
