Federal Cuts Could Force Hundreds of Mainers Into Homelessness

Major changes coming down from Washington could soon leave hundreds of Mainers without a place to live.

According to WGME 13, The U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) is planning new restrictions on how states can use federal housing dollars. First reported by Politico, the changes would cap permanent supportive housing funding at just 30% of the total allocation.

Dean Klein, Executive Director of Maine’s Continuum of Care, says the cuts could push nearly 800 Mainers out of their homes. His group helps coordinate Maine’s application for federal funding to fight homelessness. “Many people will die,” he told WGME 13. especially as shelters across the state are already packed and underfunded.

Permanent supportive housing is one of the most effective ways to keep people housed, especially older adults, disabled Mainers, and those who’ve experienced long-term homelessness.

The news station reported that last year, Maine received about $22 million in HUD funds. Over $16 million of that went toward permanent supportive housing, helping about 1,310 people stay off the streets. If the 30% cap takes effect, more than half of them could lose their housing.

Cities like Bangor would be hit hard. Public Health Director Jennifer Gunderman says 177 residents there rely on these housing vouchers. Under the new rules, 124 of them could be out on the street.

And it’s not just the funding limits causing headaches. The federal government is dragging its feet on releasing this year’s grant application, likely due to the government shutdown. WGME went on to explain when it finally drops, it could come with even more red tape. Past versions have included controversial requirements like anti-camping bans and cooperation with immigration enforcement.

“We’re sitting on the edge of our seats waiting,” Gunderman said. But for hundreds of Mainers, the wait could soon mean the difference between staying housed, or being forced into the cold.