Benni Fund Applications Temporarily Paused

Due to limited funds, YWCA MDI is temporarily pausing new applications for the Benni Mutual Aid Program. We are grateful for the community's continued support and hope to reopen applications soon. If you have any questions, please contact YWCA MDI directly. Thank you for your patience and understanding.
Hamilton Station

Click here to learn more about YWCA MDI’s attainable housing project.

YWCA Mount Desert Island is dedicated to eliminating racism, empowering women and promoting peace, justice, freedom and dignity for all.

What We Do ↘

Safe lodging. Community support. A place to belong — since 1904.
We are the only YWCA in Maine still offering safe, affordable lodging for women and girls — a mission that has grown into a full community center, with programs supporting local students, women in crisis, and neighbors of all ages across MDI.

We're also woven into the rhythm of community life on MDI, with beloved annual traditions like the Carol Dyer Luminaria Evening, our free Thanksgiving community meal, and the Children's Bazaar. Throughout the year, we host a senior chair exercise class three times a week — just one more way we bring neighbors together, all year round.

See below for YWCA MDI programs and how to join us!

Lodging for Women & Girls

YWCA MDI is the only YWCA in the state of Maine to offer lodging to women and girls.
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Benni Mutual Aid Program

Our Benni Mutual Aid Program encompasses our mutual aid serivces that include financial aid, free heaters in the winter, and a Pay It Forward fund to help inspire random acts of kindness.
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Racial Justice

The YWCA hosts an annual Martin Luther King Jr. sleepover and service project to engage young people in our mission to eliminate racism.

Request Information
Scholarships

We help in funding educational opportunities for traditional and non-traditional students.
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Strong Bodies Senior Exercise Class

Low-impact aerobic exercise designed to strengthen bones and help in the prevention of osteoarthritis and osteoporosis. All are welcome!

Every Monday, Wednesday and Friday
9:15am to 10:15am
Contact YWCA MDI directly to learn how to sign up!
Resource Assistance Program

Our resource coordinator provides one-on-one support to help individuals and families access the services and resources they need to thrive.
Appointments available beginning Sept 8, 2026.

Schedule an Appointment