Mercy Hospital receives $400K challenge grant to expand workforce development

Courtesy / Northern Light Mercy Hospital Mercy Hospital, in Portland, will use a $400,000 pledge from the John T. Gorman Foundation to support the hospital's workforce development efforts.

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By Staff

Northern Light Mercy Hospital in Portland has received a $400,000 grant to support workforce development at the hospital and, in the process, help fund completion of Mercy’s campus consolidation.

The Portland-based John T. Gorman Foundation pledged the gift on a matching basis, providing $20 for every $100 raised in Mercy’s ongoing capital campaign, according to a news release Thursday.

The foundation funding will support +MPower, which provides training to New Mainers and others who face challenges entering or advancing in the workforce. The capital campaign supports the expansion of the 230-bed hospital’s campus at 175 Fore River Parkway and the move of services and operations there from an older, obsolete facility at 144 State St.

“We’re grateful to the John T. Gorman Foundation for their strong partnership and generous support of Mercy’s workforce development program,” said Melissa Skahan, Mercy vice president of mission integration. “With their help, we’re able to provide vital resources and training to help marginalized communities begin healthcare careers or advance in the workplace. Together, we’re helping to close the opportunity gap for many in our community.”

Through community partnerships with Portland Adult Education and others, +MPower establishes career pathways with enhanced access to education and training. The program helps participants begin or advance careers and earn higher wages while also helping employers meet workforce needs.

“Too often, new Mainers and others face systemic barriers that keep them from advancing in the workforce, despite their great potential and desire to do so,” said Tony Cipollone, the foundation's president and CEO. “The John T. Gorman Foundation appreciates that Mercy Hospital is providing new opportunities and supports to enable new and incumbent workers to successfully pursue their career aspirations. We know it will make a positive difference for many workers, their families, and our communities.”

Last month, Mercy announced that it had received a $250,000 capital campaign grant from the Lunder Foundation to fund the campus consolidation project. At the time, the hospital had raised more than 90% of the $20 million goal for the campaign.

Part of the Northern Light Health system, Mercy broke ground on the consolidation project in 2020 and expects to finish construction this year.