born out of the vision and determination of a group of young Somali Bantus living in Lewiston, Maine. These individuals recognized the pressing need to support refugee youth who were struggling to adapt to their new lives in the United States. Many of these youth faced academic challenges, as the school system was ill-equipped to address the unique needs of students who lacked prior education and had limited English proficiency.

Thus, the Somali Bantu Youth Association of Maine (SBYAM) was established, initially operating out of a blue van carrying athletic equipment. SBYAM developed its first organized soccer program, providing a constructive outlet for youth and keeping them engaged. Additionally, the organization introduced the “Help or Get Help” initiative, connecting students from various grade levels with college students to support one another academically. These efforts began to yield positive results, reflected in a significant increase in the graduation rate among Somali youth in Lewiston, rising to nearly 97% within eight years.

In 2015, to reflect its expanded scope of services and commitment to serving a diverse range of populations, SBYAM underwent a name change and became Maine Immigrant and Refugee Services (MEIRS). MEIRS further enhanced its ability to serve clients by acquiring its own building, providing culturally appropriate programs and services, and creating a safe and welcoming space for families and youth to feel at home.

MEIRS’ transformative journey showcases the power of grassroots efforts to address pressing community needs. By providing educational support, promoting cultural identity, assisting with language acquisition and citizenship, and bridging the gap in mental health services, MEIRS continues to uplift immigrant and refugee communities in Maine, empowering individuals to build healthier and more prosperous lives.

MEIRS has achieved significant milestones in its commitment to supporting immigrants and refugees. In 2021, it stood out as the sole ECBO (Ethnic Community-Based Organization) in the state to be approved to resettle over 100 Afghan individuals. This accomplishment underscores MEIRS’ expertise and dedication in providing crucial resettlement services.

Building on this success, in 2022, MEIRS has been approved to become a full resettlement agency under the Ethiopian Community Development Inc. (ECDC), based in Virginia. This partnership enables MEIRS to expand its reach and resettle refugees from various regions around the world. By joining forces with ECDC, MEIRS gains access to additional resources and expertise, further enhancing its ability to serve the needs of immigrants and refugees.

MEIRS’ expanded role now encompasses resettling refugees from diverse backgrounds while continuing to provide comprehensive wraparound services tailored to meet the specific needs of immigrants and refugees in Maine. This holistic approach ensures that individuals and families receive the necessary support to successfully integrate into their new communities and build thriving lives.

Through its continued commitment to resettlement and wraparound services, MEIRS plays a vital role in facilitating the successful transition and empowerment of immigrants and refugees, fostering a sense of belonging and self-sufficiency.