Morton-Kelly Charitable Trust Awards $10,000 to Support Historic Facade Restoration at Heart of Maine Resource Center

Dexter, Maine — 16 December 2025 — Heart of Maine Resource Center is pleased to announce a $10,000 grant from the Morton-Kelly Charitable Trust to support the restoration of the historic brick facade of its future home, the former Bert Call Photography Studio, in downtown Dexter.

Constructed in 1908, the building is a well-known community landmark and reflects the rich cultural and artistic history of the region. The grant will fund significant restoration work on the front-facing brick facade, returning it to its original appearance and helping preserve the building’s historic character for generations to come.

The Morton-Kelly Charitable Trust supports community arts and cultural programs, cultural facility improvements, and historic preservation projects across Maine. Its investment in HMRC aligns with the Trust’s commitment to restoring meaningful historic structures and celebrating the state’s diverse cultural heritage.

“Our building has long been part of Dexter’s story,” said Laura Gordon, Executive Director of Heart of Maine Resource Center. “This support from the Morton-Kelly Charitable Trust allows us to honor that history while creating a welcoming, dignified space where neighbors can connect with essential services. We are grateful for their partnership.”

In addition to restoring the facade, HMRC plans to honor the legacy of the late Bert Call, a respected local photographer, by displaying a selection of his photographic works in the building’s lobby. This tribute will celebrate the building’s artistic roots while inviting community members to engage with local history as they enter the space.

The facade restoration is a key milestone in HMRC’s larger building renovation project, which will allow the organization to expand programming and better meet evolving community needs. This grant brings HMRC one step closer to completing renovations and opening a permanent, welcoming home for its work in the greater Dexter area.

About Heart of Maine Resource Center

Founded in 2018, Heart of Maine Resource Center connects neighbors in the greater Dexter region with food and supportive services that promote stability, dignity, and community wellbeing. HMRC currently offers monthly food distributions and coordinates home repair projects, while working toward opening a permanent facility that will serve as a hub for connection and collaboration.