Maine's Fight for Affordable Housing: A Critical Look

Maine is grappling with a housing crisis that impacts everyone, but hits the most vulnerable the hardest.

The Challenge

• Young adults and families struggle to afford homes.
• Low-income individuals, those with disabilities, and people battling addiction face even greater challenges.
• Affordable housing can mean the difference between stability and homelessness.

A Proven Solution: Permanent Supportive Housing

• Over 1,600 homes in Maine provide not just shelter, but also:
• Healthcare
• Job support
• These programs help people rebuild their lives.

The Threat: Federal Funding Cuts

• The federal government is considering cutting funding for these programs.
• Over 1,200 people in Maine could be pushed back into homelessness.
• Consequences of cuts:
• Increased strain on hospitals and emergency services.
• More people in shelters.

The Fight Against Cuts

• Maine's Attorney General is leading the charge against these cuts.
• Other states are joining the fight.
• Lawmakers need to act to:
• Protect funding.
• Reduce bureaucracy.
• Focus on keeping people housed.

Maine's Leadership in Housing

• The Continuum of Care Board is a group of experts working together to tackle homelessness.
• With strong state leadership and federal support, Maine can continue to:
• Make homelessness rare.
• Make homelessness brief.