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I felt grateful when I heard my furnace come on the other day. Those without housing don’t have that comfort. The documentary film “Building Hope: Ending Homelessness in Maine” highlights people living in the Bangor camp. It also highlights the need for different housing policies, since the current system is far more expensive and dehumanizing than providing housing would be.
One Maine study demonstrated that providing housing to homeless people resulted in a 57 percent drop in the cost of mental health services. More than 20 percent of homeless households have children. There’s been a 30 percent increase in the number of homeless seniors; many of whom worked their entire lives. Federal housing vouchers have been on pause. More than 70 percent of households in our area are not able to afford median rent.
I thank the BDN for its extensive coverage on homelessness and our lack of affordable housing. I also thank the City of Bangor for deciding not to clear the camp and to continue seeking housing for its inhabitants and more affordable housing options.
Bangor Homeless Shelter and Orland’s H.O.M.E. Inc. provide shelter and resources to get people back on their feet — but have faced significant deficits and need our help.
Please consider arranging for a showing of the film near you and donating to your local shelter. To be dry, warm and have a second chance — isn’t that what we would all want?
Joyce Schelling
Orland
