Kara Hay, CEO of Penquis, was recently awarded the National Lyndon Baines Johnson Leadership Award by the National Community Action Partnership. This award recognizes those whose knowledge and expertise promote social and economic opportunities for Maine children and families.
In January of this year, Penquis received $3.3 million to support UMaine’s future BioHome3D community. This $3.3 million will go towards creating the nation’s first bio-based 3D printed neighborhood, comprised of nine homes that will be used by people experiencing homelessness in the greater Bangor area. The development of this technology will alleviate a state-wide affordable housing crisis and help create jobs in Maine in fields like construction, local forest industries, engineering, and manufacturing.
Penquis is a non-profit organization that aims to assist Maine families and individuals experiencing poverty and assist the social and economic needs of impoverished communities. BioHome3D is the first ever fully bio-based 3D printed house with the world’s largest thermoplastic 3D printer. The BioHome is 600 square feet with 1 bedroom and 1 bathroom, the definition of affordable housing here in Maine. Made from wood-waste material and a bio-resin, this house has a reduced impact on the environment compared to a traditional stick-built house. Having the ability to accelerate yet lower the cost of production will help make this an option for low-cost housing. This project is a collaboration between the University of Maine’s Advanced Structures and Composites Center, MaineHousing, Oak Ridge National Laboratory, and Maine Technology Institute.
Congratulations to Kara Hay on this outstanding accomplishment! Thank you for your amazing work alleviating poverty and helping the Advanced Structures and Composites Center create bio-based affordable housing!
If you’re interested in touring the BioHome, schedule a tour here.
Advanced Structures & Composites Center