The Latest from Island Housing Trust

Updates on Homes, Projects, and People

From the New Executive Director: Reflections and Gratitude

As I wrap up my first months with Island Housing Trust, I’ve been inspired by the warmth and generosity of this community. Visiting residents, speaking with supporters, and seeing the impact of our work firsthand has reinforced how essential secure, year-round housing is to Mount Desert Island.

Ripples Hill Phase 3 continues to be a central focus, with nine families soon moving into new homes—a milestone made possible by the dedication of our staff, board, partners, and supporters.

I am grateful for your confidence and look forward to learning from you, building on our mission, and shaping the next chapter of IHT together.

Ripples Hill Phase 3 Fully Funded!

IHT has officially completed fundraising for Ripples Hill Phase 3, reaching a $3.05 million goal that will bring nine new year-round homes to families who live, work, and attend school on MDI in 2026.

This milestone reflects the collective commitment of 79 donors, local businesses, foundations, grant funders, and the Town of Mount Desert, whose residents supported critical infrastructure for this project. Together, Phase 3 doubles the size of the Ripples Hill neighborhood in Somesville and helps build a more connected, resilient year-round community.

We are deeply grateful to all our supporters. These partnerships strengthen MDI’s year-round communities and make room for those we rely on every day.

2025 Winter Newsletter - Now Available Online to Read

The Island Housing Trust winter newsletter is here!

Catch up on program updates, hear from Sherry, celebrate our donors, discover ways to make an impact, and meet Natalie, the driving force behind Ripples Hill Phase 3.

Get your inside look at how we’re creating year‑round housing solutions on the island — and a big thank you to all our 2025 donors!

Join Our Team!

Island Housing Trust is hiring a full-time Business Manager to help support our mission of creating year-round housing for the essential workers, families, and community members who sustain Mount Desert Island.

If you’re passionate about community, housing equity, and making a tangible impact, we’d love to hear from you! Applications are due December 31, 2025.

Your Support Opens Doors…for those we rely on to live, work, and go to school year-round on MDI.

From the classroom to the hospital, from our homes to our harbors—MDI depends on people who are here year-round. But more and more, those who keep this island running are finding it harder to stay.

Your gift helps open the door to safe, stable, and year-round homes affordable for essential workers and their families.

Together, we’re not just building housing—we’re making room for the people who make this island home.

2024 Annual Report

Our Impact

 Visit the IHT profile on Candid for more information.

A few words from a Homeowner

“Without Island Housing Trust, we may have had to re-locate and move our family off Mount Desert Island. With our families close by, we want to raise our children here. Our children benefit from the excellent school system. Each of us have a short commute to work on the Island. Island Housing Trust has helped us keep our mortgage affordable.”