Esther Residence is a transitional program for women who are leaving incarceration.

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In 1850, a home was opened in Quebec City to welcome women leaving prison, and... the Good Shepherd Community was born. In 2004, the need for a transitional house for women leaving incarceration was seen, and... Esther Residence was born in Saco, Maine.

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Here at Esther Residence, women are welcomed and assisted in adjusting to living “outside”, supported in their goal of staying sober, guided in learning new skills, and invited to new recreational activities.

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They cook, clean, relax, have fun, get a job, learn how to budget, pay rent and plan for their next step. Daily reflection time provides additional support and encouragement.

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Religious and lay women contribute their time as staff or volunteers and many friends and parishioners join our community effort and help to finance and support this needed and welcomed ministry.

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Would you like to join us in this ministry?

Read about the experience of some of our residents and what Esther Residence did for them.

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"I have had a very nice experience at the Esther Residence. I have... experienced a lot! I have met all the goals that I set for myself except one and I am working on it. The residence is a very helpful place and the staff help with everything they know and if they don’t know, they find the answer for you. I have been sober and have my kids back in my life and it is wonderful! I learned how to quilt and have done a lot of very “adventurous” things. I’m loving the “new me” and the sober life. It’s a lot of hard work but so worth it!!"

- Tina

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"I am 25 years old and I was released from the Florida state prison...after serving 2 years.  When I first moved into Esther Residence, I was insecure about being able to interact with other people, worried that I wouldn’t be able to find a job, and grieving over the loss of my mother. I don’t think I can adequately put into words all that living here has done for me. The Sisters here have loved, supported, guided, encouraged, and nurtured me when I was unable to do those things for myself. It is wonderful to be a part of, and live in a place that is safe and people are non-judgmental. As I continue my stay here at Esther Residence I hope that I can help someone else, with what has so freely been given to me."

- Mary

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