Maine Leaders Urge Federal Funding to Combat Homelessness

Maine’s leaders in housing and homelessness are calling for continued federal funding to address the state’s pressing homelessness crisis. The demand comes as data indicates a significant housing shortage across the state, impacting many residents, particularly those with low incomes or facing challenges such as disabilities and addiction.

The current housing landscape in Maine has left many families unable to find affordable rental options. Young adults are struggling to secure housing with friends, and long commutes are becoming commonplace for workers due to a lack of nearby homes. This housing instability has a profound impact on vulnerable populations, making affordable housing solutions essential.

In response to this growing crisis, organizations like Avesta Housing, led by President and CEO Jennifer Hawkins, are advocating for a comprehensive approach that includes not only affordable homes but also wrap-around services tailored to individual needs. These services offer critical support, helping individuals transition out of homelessness and into stable living conditions.

Maine has made significant strides in recent years through its commitment to permanent supportive housing. This model pairs affordable apartments with supportive services, leading to a reduction in homelessness across the state. Currently, there are 1,624 permanent supportive homes in Maine, with 85 of these managed by Avesta Housing. These homes provide stability and dignity, allowing residents to heal and recover from various life challenges.

The positive effects of having a stable home extend beyond individual well-being. It is more cost-effective for society to invest in housing than to incur expenses related to jail, hospitalization, or institutionalization. Evidence shows that stable housing leads to better health outcomes and reduced reliance on emergency services.

Despite these advancements, Maine’s efforts cannot continue without federal support. The federal Continuum of Care (CoC) Program has been a crucial lifeline, funding essential services and permanent supportive housing for those at risk of returning to shelters or the streets. Unfortunately, proposed cuts to the CoC could jeopardize this progress, potentially eliminating 780 homes in Maine and reversing years of hard work.

Both the Maine Continuum of Care, led by Executive Director Dean Klein, and Avesta Housing are united in their mission to make homelessness in Maine rare, brief, and non-recurring. To achieve this goal, they are urging Congress to renew all eligible Maine CoC grants for fiscal year 2025 and to protect the program from harmful federal regulations that could undermine fair housing efforts and local decision-making.

The message from Maine’s housing leaders is clear: a strong partnership with the federal government is essential to maintaining these vital resources. With continued funding, Maine can ensure that every resident has access to safe and quality housing, helping to create a more stable and inclusive community for all.