Maine advocates seek $5 million boost for shelters

Advocates for the homeless in Maine are urging state lawmakers to increase funding for emergency shelters. They say shelters are struggling to meet growing demand. A bill is proposing an additional $5 million a year for the state’s Emergency Shelter and Housing Assistance Program. This program has not received more funding since 2016. Senator Rachel Talbot Ross sponsors the bill. She believes this increase is essential to prevent shelter closures. Currently, the program helps cover only a small part of the operating costs for shelter beds. A recent study shows it provides about $7 of the average $102 nightly cost for a shelter bed. Shelter providers argue that the funding is necessary due to rising expenses and ongoing housing challenges. The proposed increase would raise state support to $19 per bed. However, Governor Janet Mills’ administration has stated it is difficult to find funds for this proposal in a tight budget year. Despite the challenges, there has been some past support, including one-time funds for shelters. Advocates say that many shelters still face severe financial issues. Testimonies given on Tuesday painted a dire picture, with some shelters considering taking loans just to keep operating. Former shelter residents also spoke about the critical role these facilities play. They highlighted how emergency shelters provide vital services that can help individuals rebuild their lives. Without more funding, many argue that homelessness in Maine could worsen.