Fay Garman's long-standing dream came true this summer with the opening of Faye Garman House, a senior housing complex located on Peaks Island, a 20-minute ferry ride from Portland, Maine. Beginning in 1996, she worked tirelessly to secure affordable housing on the island, as skyrocketing housing costs threatened to displace many of its senior citizens.

Faye Garman House on Peaks Island

One of Fay's first accomplishments was to engage the assistance of Volunteers of America Northern New England, who stepped in to write grants, manage fundraising campaigns, consult with islanders, develop budgets, overcome a host of obstacles, and oversee the construction of the facility. Hard work and persistence paid off, and on August 26, Faye Garman House opened its doors.

The 11-unit complex features a handicap accessible community room, 24-hour emergency on-call service, an on-site manager, and attached health center. The Peaks Island Health Center, which was funded by donations from nearly 200 donors, is connected to the housing complex through an enclosed walkway, providing easy access to basic health care for those living there. In addition to three exam rooms, there is a room equipped for visits from a dentist.

The Harry & Jeannette Weinberg handicap accessible community room

Marianne Jaffe, the first resident to move in, is particularly grateful for the efforts of Fay Garman, Volunteers of America, and the dozens of others who have made this island project a reality after a decade of talking and planning. "I especially know what it meant to Fay. It was so important to have a place here, since so many people were having to move off."

Faye Garman House is a loving tribute to Fay Garman who died of cancer in 1998.

For a housing application, contact Volunteers of America Northern New England (http://www.voa-nne.org/) at (207) 373-1160. Visit HUD's website to learn more about Section 202 Supportive Housing for the Elderly program funding.