There is never a time where our state’s housing crisis looms more present than when snow is falling. Our state continues to experience a shortage of housing inventory, of homes that are affordable for the average Mainer and of subsidies needed for our most vulnerable populations.

The shining light in this housing gloom is that Maine has a number of homeless shelters scattered throughout the state that strive to meet the overwhelming demand. They are not without hurdles. Our shelters are often scraping by to cover their operating costs. Through the generosity of many creative funding streams, Maine’s shelters stay open to accommodate as many individuals and families as they are able. When one shelter experiences financial burden and has to close — as we saw in May 2025 with York County Shelter Programs — other shelters do not have the means to absorb those citizens who have now lost their place to stay.

The burden of care falls on municipalities, hospitals, schools and others who are not equipped to meet the need. As a state, we need to prioritize supporting existing shelters through every means possible. At the community level, it is vital that we lift up our local shelters every chance we can.

Shannon Shimer
director of Social Services, Homeworthy
Rockport