WHO WE ARE
Sustainable Livelihood Relief Organization (SLRO) is a community-rooted organization supporting immigrant and refugee families—especially Somali Bantu women, children, and elders—in building stable, self-determined lives in Maine. Grounded in lived experience, our work addresses barriers like language isolation, limited education, and transportation through culturally aligned programs in food access, workforce development, youth engagement, and wellness. We center oral learning, community leadership, and mutual care as the foundation for lasting stability. Our vision is a Maine where immigrant families thrive with dignity, shape their futures, and stay connected to land, culture, and each other.
Our Mission
SLRO exists to help immigrant and refugee families, especially Somali Bantu women, elders, and youth, build sustainable lives after displacement. Through land-based programs, community-rooted care, and oral, in-language learning, we support long-term economic stability, emotional well-being, and cultural connection. Our mission is not just to fill gaps, but to rebuild the systems, relationships, and opportunities families need to move forward, on their own terms
OUR IMPACT
Urban Farming Progression
Initiated the "From Apartment to Lot to Greenhouse to Field to Farm" project, successfully transitioning through various stages of urban farming and agricultural development.
Cooperative Power, Led by Mothers
Established the Isuken Co-op, a food system-focused cooperative run from a food truck, which is collectively owned by seven immigrant mothers. Out of these worker-owners, five are non-English speakers and two are fluent in English, embodying a diverse workforce.
Investing in Youth Leadership
Developed and delivered a comprehensive youth training program, conducting eight different workshops for 35 individuals aged 13-25. A committed group of 20 youths from these workshops will be advancing their education in food systems through classes offered by the University of Southern Maine Lewiston-Auburn College.
Supporting Women Through Childcare Training
Conducted childcare training for 75 mothers, providing ten workshops in collaboration with the Cooperative Development Institute (CDI) and the Somali Bantu Community of Maine. This initiative helped to empower mothers with essential childcare skills and knowledge.
Food as a Bridge for Belonging
Created the "Mainers Integration Potluck," a program designed to foster relationships and bridge integration barriers between New Mainers and native Mainers. By arranging visits and cooking sessions in native Mainer homes, the initiative has been successful in building strong ties, facilitating community integration, and addressing misunderstandings and misconceptions.
OUR PROGRAMS
From Soil to Table (Flagship Program)
A land-based program that reconnects families with traditional agriculture, food knowledge, and nutrition education through culturally grounded, oral learning.
Youth Sustainable Development
A mentorship-driven program that supports youth through creative workshops, sports, career exploration, and peer-led learning rooted in trust and belonging.
Adult Integration & Empowerment (AIEP)
Designed for New Mainer adults—especially Somali Bantu mothers—this program offers job readiness, system navigation, entrepreneurship support, and wellness rooted in cultural care and connection to land.
Send Us a Message
Whether you're a community member, partner, or supporter—we’d love to hear from you. Reach out with questions, ideas, or opportunities to collaborate.