Central Maine Medical Center

As one of just two "hospitality houses" affiliated with a Maine hospital, The Arbor House - located near Central Maine Medical Center on Lewiston's Main Street - has become an important component of CMMC's service mission to patients and their families.

Originally developed to meet the housing needs of patients receiving treatment at CMMC's Cynthia A. Rydholm Cancer Treatment Center, The Arbor House soon became a valuable resource for the loved ones of trauma patients and other long-term CMMC inpatients.

The need for convenient lodging has grown over the years. In 2000 the decision was made to relocate the Arbor House and expand it from five to 15 bedrooms. Compelling the decision was the family-focused vision for care for CMMC's cardiac care center, now under construction on Hammond Street, just a block away. The availability of nearby lodging makes hospitalization for cardiac surgery more comfortable and less disruptive for patients and their families.

On the first floor of the new Arbor House are five large bedrooms, as well as a shared common room, fully equipped kitchen, dining room, and a small library with a computer and reading material. Four spacious upstairs apartments in this smoke-free facility provide room for entire families. Bed linen and towels are provided and laundry facilities are available as well. A landscaped reflection garden and patio outside offer comfortable places for solitude or conversation.

The hospitalization of a family member is often an emotional, exhausting, and traumatic time. For families from out of town, dealing with issues like housing, meals, and transportation can become an expensive and trying burden. CMMC patients and their families regularly share poignant stories and words of gratitude for the gift of an Arbor House stay.

"The call that my husband had been in a traumatic accident was devastating in itself," wrote one woman. "Then to have such a generous offer [to stay at the Arbor House] for such a long period of time was so wonderful. I am overwhelmed with relief each time I ask myself what I would have done without these accommodations." Another family member wrote: "Thank you to all the powers that be for creating this wonderful place to be." And finally, these simple, but heartfelt words: "Bless all involved with this haven."

To make it possible for people to stay free of charge, Arbor House relies on the generosity of community support. A multi-year commitment of $150,000 from the Woman's Hospital Association will play a vital role in funding the ongoing operations of the newly expanded Arbor House. Anyone wishing to make a gift to support the new Arbor House should call the CMHC Development Office at 795-2975.