My Place Teen Center (St. Andre Church)

The revitalization of the historic St. Andre Church in Biddeford is a testament to the resilience and community spirit of Southern Maine. At the heart of this transformation is Jim Godbout and his company, Jim Godbout Plumbing & Heating, who have played a pivotal role in the church's journey from a neglected landmark to a beacon of hope for the youth.

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Constructed in the late 1800s, St. Andre Church was an integral part of the Biddeford community until its closure over a decade ago. The building, along with its adjoining structures, was purchased by the Biddeford Housing Authority in 2016, igniting a dream to repurpose it into a vibrant community center. The former church is set to become the new home of the My Place Teen Center, an organization dedicated to providing a safe haven and nurturing environment for young people.

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The My Place Teen Center, under the leadership of Executive Director Donna Dwyer, has been a cornerstone for youth in northern York County. Their services extend beyond a safe space; they offer homemade meals, job and life skills training, academic assistance, and leadership development. The new location at the St. Andre Church is an opportunity to expand these services and foster the potential of even more young people.

The transformation of the church, however, was a massive undertaking. This is where Jim Godbout and his team at Jim Godbout Plumbing & Heating stepped in, showcasing their commitment to community service. As a well-known community volunteer, Jim Godbout spearheaded the renovation efforts, bringing his expertise and resources to the forefront. Recognizing the significance of this project for the youth, he volunteered his time and provided in-kind services, making the dream of a renovated teen center a reality.

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The building itself, a classic Romanesque Revival structure, was in dire need of repair. The bricks were crumbling, the roof required repairs, and the electrical systems and plumbing needed updating. Additionally, the building required fire-safety updates, lead paint abatement, new flooring, a new heating system, and a commercial kitchen. One of the most daunting tasks was cleaning out the remnants of a pigeon infestation.

Godbout's approach to the renovation was methodical and community-focused. He saw this as more than just a building project; it was a chance to invest in the future of the community's youth. His involvement went beyond professional services. He engaged students from the Biddeford High School Center of Technology, involving them in the plumbing and electrical work, thereby providing them with hands-on learning opportunities.

The project, paused due to the Covid pandemic, received a significant boost with a $1.5 million allocation from the American Rescue Plan funds by the York County Commissioners. This funding was a recognition of the project's value to the community, a sentiment echoed by Al Sicard, a former county commissioner.

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Jim Godbout's dedication to this project is reflective of his broader commitment to community service. His belief in the potential of the St. Andre Church, mirrored by his actions, demonstrates a profound understanding of the importance of community spaces in shaping the lives of young people.

As the St. Andre Church stands on the brink of a new era, it's not just a building being restored; it's the revival of a community spirit, fueled by the dedication and hard work of individuals like Jim Godbout and organizations like Jim Godbout Plumbing & Heating. Their involvement in this project goes beyond mere renovation; it is about laying the foundation for a future where the youth of Biddeford can thrive.