503 Woodford Street, Portland, ME 04103
For more information about senior living options: (844) 490-3973
They love going there to do art to help anxiety and stress. They help people get on track and do good work. The atmosphere is welcoming; staff are understanding and polite, and the front desk helps people with disabilities and mental health. They help people who would otherwise be homeless. They helped Ana Marie Cornell with housing a year and a half ago, and she doesn't know where she'd be without them. They do great things; people can't say enough good things about them. Shalom House is a pleasure to deal with and does great work; Samantha B. and her team have been great to work with. They helped a family avoid homelessness after a fall and injuries. The staff are courteous, polite, and very helpful.
They neglect their clients and don't provide any mental health services. They were disrespectful from the front desk and told they couldn't have a callback for 10 days. They aren't up to fair market prices in Kittery; they aren't impressed. For 12 years they had been impressed, but not now. The family shelter accused them of false things and tried to have their kids taken from them. They can't get help for their friend; they do nothing for him. They are only there to collect federal funding. Passive-aggressive behavior is the indirect expression of hostility, such as through procrastination, stubbornness, sullen behavior, or deliberate or repeated failure to accomplish requested tasks.This community is best suited for adults who are chronically homeless or at high risk of homelessness and need a structured pathway to stable housing and essential supports. It functions as a housing-first program that many reviewers credit with getting people housed and connected to needed resources. Those seeking intensive on-site mental-health treatment, highly predictable customer service, or transparent, market-level pricing may want to consider alternatives, as the reviews show a wide range of experiences and outcomes.
On the plus side, several reviews emphasize courteous, caring staff and a front-desk that is generally approachable and responsive. Residents repeatedly note that the organization helps people who would otherwise be homeless, often delivering practical help that translates into real housing opportunities. There are tangible success stories - people who express gratitude for finding housing and for the ongoing support that followed - suggesting a dependable backbone when life has been unstable. In short, the operation can be a meaningful bridge from street-vulnerability to a more stable living situation.
But the experience is not uniform, and the gaps are notable. Critics point to neglectful tones or inconsistent outreach, with some reviewers accusing the program of failing to provide mental-health services or to deliver on certain promises. Front-desk interactions range from supportive to frictions-heavy, including instances of disrespect or slow follow-up when referrals or calls are requested. A subset of residents questions the value proposition, particularly around pricing and whether the services justify the cost in certain markets. One account even describes a sense of being effectively stalled when help was most needed.
Those tensions matter because they directly affect progress. The strongest justification for sticking with this community is the housing outcome: the program consistently demonstrates the ability to move people into housing and keep them integrated with essential supports. When staff are responsive and the path to housing is clear, the benefits can be significant, especially for households that have struggled with instability for years. The main risk is that inconsistent service quality and limited mental-health resources can undermine trust and derail the longer arc of stabilization, turning short-term housing gains into a fragile arrangement if supports flicker or disappear.
For families evaluating options, a disciplined due-diligence approach is essential. Ask for a concrete, written care plan that details housing placement steps, the roles of case managers, and the availability of on-site or easily accessible mental-health services. Inquire about who handles referrals, the expected response times, and what happens if a client needs more intensive treatment or crisis support. Clarify pricing, what is included in monthly costs, and whether vouchers or subsidies are accepted, since price sensitivity is a frequent point of concern in some markets. Request current references and, if possible, speak to residents about both the successes and the friction they experienced.
Bottom line: this community delivers real value for families seeking housing stability and practical support, backed by a track record of moving people off the street and into a steadier footing. However, it is not a one-size-fits-all solution. If the priority is robust, on-site mental-health care or consistently impeccable customer service, alternatives may offer a better match. For those who can tolerate some variability in service and are focused on the core objective of securing housing with workable supports, this program remains a credible option worth pursuing, with careful questions and a clear, written plan guiding the next steps.
6 resident community capacity
Assisted LivingAssisted living facilities provide crucial support and care for seniors who may need help with daily tasks such as medication management, bathing, and meal preparation. These communities offer a safe and comfortable environment where seniors can maintain their independence while receiving the assistance they need to thrive in their golden years.
Cable or satellite TVCable or satellite TV is important for seniors because it provides entertainment, news, and companionship, helping to combat loneliness and boredom. It also offers a wide range of programming options tailored to different interests and preferences.
Dining roomDining rooms are important for seniors as they provide a space for socialization, connection, and nutritious meals. They offer opportunities for residents to bond over shared meals, foster a sense of community, and promote healthy eating habits. Dining rooms also ensure that seniors have access to well-balanced meals tailored to their dietary needs and preferences.
Fully furnishedFully furnished senior living communities are important for seniors because they provide convenience, comfort, and a hassle-free moving experience. Seniors can easily settle into their new living space without the stress of having to buy and move furniture. This allows them to focus on enjoying their new home and community.
GardenGardens are important for seniors as they provide a peaceful and therapeutic environment for relaxation, physical activity, and socialization. Being in nature has been shown to reduce stress, improve mood, and promote overall well-being. Gardens also offer opportunities for seniors to engage in gardening activities, which can improve mobility, flexibility, and cognitive function. Additionally, gardens create a sense of community and connection with others who share a passion for plants and outdoor spaces.
Housekeeping servicesHousekeeping services are important for seniors because they help maintain a clean and safe living environment, promote independence, and reduce the risk of accidents or illnesses. Additionally, having assistance with household chores can alleviate physical strain and allow seniors to focus on other aspects of their well-being.
Move-in coordinationMove-in coordination is important for seniors because it helps ease the transition into their new living environment. It ensures that all logistics, such as packing, organizing movers, and setting up utilities are taken care of, allowing seniors to focus on settling in and adjusting to their new home. Having a smooth move-in process can alleviate stress and anxiety, making the transition smoother and more enjoyable for seniors.
Outdoor spaceOutdoor spaces are important for seniors as they provide opportunities for physical activity, social interaction, exposure to natural light and fresh air, and a sense of connection to nature. Having access to outdoor spaces can improve overall well-being and quality of life for older adults living in senior communities.
TelephoneTelephones are important for seniors as they provide a lifeline for communication with loved ones, emergency services, and healthcare providers. They offer a sense of security and independence, enabling seniors to stay connected and access assistance when needed.
Wi-Fi/high-speed internet availableWi-Fi/high-speed internet is important for seniors to stay connected with loved ones, access online resources, and participate in virtual activities to combat feelings of loneliness and isolation. It also allows them to easily manage healthcare needs, access entertainment, and engage in lifelong learning opportunities.
Portland International Jetport (2 miles away)
24-hour supervision24-hour supervision is important for seniors to ensure their safety, well-being, and access to immediate assistance in case of emergencies or health issues. This constant support provides peace of mind for both seniors and their loved ones, allowing them to age in place with dignity and security.
Activities of daily living assistanceActivities of daily living assistance are important for seniors because they provide essential support with tasks such as eating, bathing, dressing, and mobility. This assistance helps seniors maintain their independence, dignity, and overall quality of life as they age.
Assistance with bathingAssistance with bathing is crucial for seniors as it helps maintain personal hygiene, prevents infections, and ensures their overall well-being and comfort. It also provides a sense of dignity and independence for seniors who may struggle with this task on their own.
Assistance with dressingAssistance with dressing is important for seniors because it helps maintain their independence, promotes personal hygiene, prevents accidents and injuries, and improves overall quality of life. This service ensures that seniors can continue to dress comfortably and confidently, despite any physical limitations they may have.
Assistance with transfersAssistance with transfers is crucial for seniors as it helps prevent falls and injuries, maintains their independence, and ensures they can safely navigate their living environment. It also provides peace of mind for both seniors and their loved ones. Coordination with health care providersCoordination with health care providers is crucial for seniors to ensure proper medical care, medication management, and overall well-being. This collaboration helps prevent overlapping treatments, track progress more effectively, and provide comprehensive support tailored to individual needs.
Diabetes dietA diabetes diet is crucial for seniors as it helps manage blood sugar levels, reduce risks of complications, and improve overall health and well-being. By following a balanced and nutritious diet tailored to their specific needs, seniors can better control their diabetes and enhance their quality of life.
Meal preparation and serviceMeal preparation and service are crucial for seniors as they may have limited mobility or energy to cook nutritious meals. Having access to healthy and convenient food options can ensure they are getting the proper nutrition needed to maintain their overall health and well-being.
Medication managementMedication management is crucial for seniors to ensure they are taking the right medications at the correct dosages and times. This helps prevent adverse drug interactions, reduces the risk of medication errors, and promotes overall health and well-being. Proactive management also allows for adjustments as needed based on changing health conditions or new prescriptions.
Special dietary restrictionsSpecial dietary restrictions are important for seniors because age-related changes in metabolism and health conditions can make it difficult for their bodies to process certain foods. By following a diet tailored to their specific needs, seniors can maintain their overall health and well-being, manage chronic conditions, and reduce the risk of complications such as malnutrition or food interactions with medications.
Transportation arrangement (medical)Transportation arrangements for medical purposes are essential for seniors as they may have difficulty driving themselves to appointments or accessing public transportation. Having reliable and safe transportation options ensures that seniors can receive timely medical care and maintain their health and well-being.
Transportation to doctors appointmentsTransportation to doctors' appointments is crucial for seniors as it ensures they have access to necessary medical care and support for their health needs. Without reliable transportation, seniors may struggle to attend important appointments, leading to potential delays in treatment and health complications. Providing transportation services helps seniors maintain their overall well-being and quality of life. Diabetes dietA diabetes diet is crucial for seniors as it helps manage blood sugar levels, reduce risks of complications, and improve overall health and well-being. By following a balanced and nutritious diet tailored to their specific needs, seniors can better control their diabetes and enhance their quality of life. Special dietary restrictionsSpecial dietary restrictions are important for seniors because age-related changes in metabolism and health conditions can make it difficult for their bodies to process certain foods. By following a diet tailored to their specific needs, seniors can maintain their overall health and well-being, manage chronic conditions, and reduce the risk of complications such as malnutrition or food interactions with medications. Community-sponsored activitiesCommunity-sponsored activities are important for seniors as they provide opportunities for social interaction, mental stimulation, and physical activity. These activities can help improve overall well-being, combat loneliness and isolation, and promote a sense of belonging and purpose among older adults. Scheduled daily activitiesScheduled daily activities are important for seniors because they provide structure, socialization, mental stimulation, and physical activity. Engaging in regular activities can improve overall well-being and quality of life for seniors living in a community setting.Shalom-Woodford Street in Portland, ME is a thriving assisted living community that offers a wide range of amenities and care services to ensure the comfort and well-being of its residents. With a focus on providing personalized care, this community strives to create an environment that feels like home.
The community features a spacious dining room where residents can enjoy delicious meals prepared by skilled culinary staff. Special dietary restrictions are accommodated to meet the individual needs of each resident. Additionally, housekeeping services are provided to maintain a clean and organized living space.
The fully furnished apartments offer a cozy and comfortable living arrangement for residents. Wi-Fi/high-speed internet and telephone services are available to stay connected with loved ones. Outdoor spaces including gardens provide opportunities for residents to enjoy fresh air and nature.
Care services at Shalom-Woodford Street include assistance with activities of daily living such as bathing, dressing, and transfers. Medication management is also provided to ensure residents' health needs are met. The dedicated staff members coordinate with healthcare providers for seamless communication and care coordination.
Residents can look forward to engaging in daily activities designed to promote socialization and overall well-being. The community is surrounded by various amenities including cafes, parks, pharmacies, restaurants, transportation options, theaters, and hospitals. This ensures easy access to entertainment options, healthcare services, and other conveniences.
With its welcoming atmosphere and comprehensive care services, Shalom-Woodford Street in Portland, ME provides seniors with a vibrant community where they can live comfortably while receiving the support they need.
Shalom-Woodford Street is located at 503 Woodford Street, Portland, ME 04103 in Cumberland County, Maine
Kelly B
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Comprehensive care (24-hour supervision, ADL assistance, medication management) with on-site dining, housekeeping, care coordination, diabetes diet options, and engaging activities.
Kelly A
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Fully furnished residences with comprehensive care, meals, and housekeeping.
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