NSB Donates $1,000 to Center for Wisdom’s Women in Lewiston

LEWISTON—The Center for Wisdom’s Women stands as a safe and sacred space dedicated to bringing hope, joy, and light into the lives of women in need. It’s a quiet place where women can come together and find peace of mind. The Center supports and empowers women survivors of addiction, trafficking, and incarceration, offering holistic healing in a shared community that tends to the material and spiritual needs of women.

The organization features several programs serving different needs. Located on 97 Blake Street, the Center is a drop-in center that is open on Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Sessions are offered each morning and afternoon ranging from art therapy to wellness programs to writing and poetry workshops, all focused on building a community of kindness and respect. All programs are free, and hygiene items and clothing are also available. Two newer programs are Sophia’s House, which is a long-term, residential recovery community for women who are survivors of prostitution, trafficking, prison, and addiction; and Herban Works, where women develop a range of skills and earn a stipend by making handmade products like calendula salve, teas, salted herbs, and more. All profits from the sale of the products return to the program to support more women through herbal healing.

“The women that work at this amazing place are so patient and caring. This is certainly a little pot of gold tucked so unsuspectingly in Lewiston,” said a survivor.

Norway Savings Bank has been a longtime supporter of the Center for Wisdom’s Women since 2013, including a recent donation of $1,000 this month.

“Other than a director, operations manager, and an outreach and program coordinator, all of these amazing programs and initiatives are presented and staffed by volunteers. Many are retired social workers, nurses, and other caring women who are lauded for their supportive listening and guidance,” said Janice de Lima, Community Reinvestment Act Officer VP at Norway Savings.

“Thanks to NSB and our other supporters, women have a safe place to form friendships, break isolation, and begin to heal through the arts, connection, and conversation,” said Sonia Turgeon, Operations Manager at the Center. “This financial support plays a vital role in our mission of creating an environment in which women can begin to heal and thrive. We appreciate their ongoing commitment.”

“The generosity of the bank and our other donors and sponsors enable us to enhance our programming, arts, and assistance for many women. The support directly impacts the women we serve, and we couldn’t do it without this support,” said Tricia Tomlinson, Executive Director of the Center.  

There are many ways for you to join in supporting this crucial program and its significant success. To learn more about volunteer opportunities, visit www.wisdomswomen.org/volunteer. To make a donation to support the Center, visit www.wisdomswomen.org/give.