MaineWorks founders, advisors, and other community leaders established Maine Recovery Fund (MERF). This public, nonprofit organization provides community support to people in recovery seeking to re-enter the workforce and re-establish a productive life through economic viability. MaineWorks provides the job while MERF provides the supportive services that bridge the gap between hopelessness and resiliency. Their mission is to dignify supportive employment and offer integrative services to people recovering from substance use disorder, re-entering from jail and prison, new Americans, and returning veterans facing re-entry obstacles. MERF is responding to two concurrent and vital national issues: substance use disorder and hyper-incarceration. They believe the time is now to support a holistic approach that includes dignified employment, access to housing, transportation to work and social services, tangible assets (boots, outerwear, and tools), access to social services including physical, mental, and dental healthcare, educational opportunities, outdoor educational experiences, and financial literacy. MERF partners with regional government, nonprofit, and social service organizations to meet these goals. Please contact the Maine Recovery Fund directly if you need any further information.